Heavy Valley rainfall from Hurricane Rosa has increased flooding chances across the Phoenix area.
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The two key elements of flash flooding are rainfall intensity and how long the rain lasts. Topography, soil conditions and ground cover play critical roles, as well.
Because our land is so dry, there is a hard crust over it which makes it difficult for the ground to absorb moisture. When water cannot seep into the ground, it runs off and collects in our low lying roads and washes leading to flooding.
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The Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, compiles detailed mapping of areas that have "a one percent chance to be equaled or exceeded in any year," which they deem the 100-year floodplains map. In other words, this map depicts areas that see flooding and have a chance for excessive flooding.
Flood insurance discounts:
The City of Phoenix just announced Wednesday that Phoenix owners can now get an addition 5 percent discount on flood insurance thanks to a new FEMA designation. Previously those in "high-risk flooding areas" in Phoenix could get a 20 percent discount on flood insurance. That discount is now being raised to 25 percent. To see if you qualify, visit www.floodsnart.gov.
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Take a look at the FEMA floodplain map below. The red lines comprise the currently defined floodplains areas in the Valley.
For a comprehensive look at floodplains mapping in the Valley, see the Maricopa County Flood Control District's map.
Many of those areas are marked around our state, warning drivers not to enter when flooded, but many drivers still try to chance it.
Remember, never try to cross a flooded roadway. There is no way to tell how deep the water really is and sometimes the road underneath has collapsed from the weight of the standing water.
If you do try to cross and need to be rescued, be prepared to face hefty fines.
In 2005, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office first invoked the “Stupid Motorist Law,” which was passed in 1995. The law requires drivers to reimburse the state for the cost of their rescue.
Jamie Rose
Here are eight tips to keep you safe when flooding strikes:
- Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc...
- Go to higher ground.
- Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. A depth of just two feet of water is enough to float most vehicles.
- When driving, remember "turn around, don't drown." NEVER drive through flooded roadways or washes!
- If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and sweep it, and you, away. Remember, it’s better to be WET than DEAD!
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening weather conditions.
- NEVER try to walk, swim or dive through swift floodwaters. If you come across them, STOP, TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY! Six-inches of fast-moving water is enough to knock you right off your feet.
