Flash Flooding Risk in the Southwest: Safety Tips for October 9–11

6 Essential Flash Flood Safety Tips for Grand Canyon Visitors

• Seek Higher Ground: The moment you see or hear rapidly rising water, move to higher ground immediately. 
• Abandon Vehicle: If your vehicle stalls in floodwater, leave it immediately and get to higher ground, as water can quickly sweep it away. 
• Do Not Drive or Walk Through Floodwaters: Roads and paths can be washed out, and you cannot see submerged debris or how fast the water is moving. 
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay away from streams, drainage ditches, low-lying areas, canyons, and other flood-prone spots. 
• Heed Warnings: Pay attention to NOAA Weather Radio and local alerts for watches and warnings. 
• Recognize the Danger of Fast-Moving Water: Even six inches of swiftly moving water can knock an adult off their feet. When in doubt, stay out. 

Source: NOLS

Visiting Grand Canyon This Weekend?

Monsoon storms can bring sudden flash flooding. Protect yourself and others by following these Grand Canyon-specific safety reminders:

• Exercise caution when hiking in Grand Canyon, Marble Canyon, and Glen Canyon areas. Slot canyons are stunning but can become deadly during storms. Thunderstorms 25 miles away can trigger flash floods!
• Avoid camping in dry washes. If you must camp nearby, choose the highest ground possible and look for signs of past flooding, such as debris lines or water stains on rocks.
• Always stay alert near creeks or drainages. Face upstream and stay vigilant—flash floods can occur even if it isn’t raining directly where you are.
• Move to higher ground immediately if you see or hear a flood coming. Do not try to outrun a flood.
• Avoid hiking on Bright Angel or South Kaibab Trails during heavy rain.
• Do not attempt to cross drainages with flowing water.
• Take shelter during thunderstorms - especially from lightning and flash flooding.

Source: NPS

🔗 View Updated Weather Forecast here

🔗 Weather Danger Information here (NPS)