Arizona Braces for Hurricane Lorena’s Rainfall and Flood Risk

How Hurricane Lorena Could Affect Arizona

We don't experience hurricanes in the western United States the same way the East Coast does. That doesn't mean they don't have an impact on our area, though.

As I write this, Hurricane Lorena is stirring things up in the Pacific. While it’s not expected to hit Arizona directly, it could still bring some serious weather our way.

Lorena became a hurricane early Wednesday with maximum sustained winds of approximately 75 mph. As I write this, it’s tracking near Baja California. The storm is expected to weaken before making landfall in Mexico later this week, according to The Weather Channel.

Read about the Monsoon in Arizona: Science & Hidden Forces Driving Arizona’s Fascinating Monsoons

There’s a catch: even though the storm is beginning to weaken, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA reports that Lorena’s leftover moisture could dump heavy rain across Southeastern Arizona from Wednesday night through Friday.

Get our free mobile app

Flash Flood Risks in Southeastern Arizona

All this sudden rain means we could see flash floods, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Be especially careful in areas with steep terrain or dry riverbeds, also known as arroyos. If you live in Tucson, Sierra Vista, Benson, Vail, or smaller towns, watch for road closures and power outages. Both are real possibilities if the rain gets intense.

Locals know how to stay safe in summer storms. What you need to know: How Newcomers Can Stay Safe In Arizona's Summer

Safety Tips for Storm Preparedness

Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Avoid flooded roads. Even a few inches of water can sweep a car away.
• Don’t drive through washes. They can flood fast, and the rushing water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Keep your phone charged. Ensure it's usable in the event of a power outage.
• Stay updated with local weather alerts and emergency info. If you live in Cochise County, subscribe to Emergency Alerts to stay informed.

Be Prepared and Stay Safe

If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider having sandbags ready and familiarize yourself with your evacuation routes, just in case. Also, pack a to-go bag for every family member, including pets, and be ready to evacuate, if necessary.

The storm may not last long, but it could cause lasting damage. Be prepared and stay safe.

[carbongallery id="6050eeb084a15b0cb1a7033a]