Heavy rains swept through Scottsdale and the surrounding Valley area on September 26, leading to flash flood warnings and temporary road closures. Weather officials indicated that gusty winds and periods of heavy rainfall could continue through the weekend.
City authorities are urging residents to stay alert as the storm system moves across Arizona. “The safest strategy during heavy rain is to stay put – remain in your home or business and avoid travel unless necessary. Never attempt to cross running water, whether on foot or by car,” officials stated.
Flooding has caused several city facilities to close, including Pinnacle Peak Park, all city dog parks, and sports fields. These closures will remain in effect through Sunday, September 28. For updates regarding Bell 94, Reata, and Scottsdale Sports complexes over the weekend, residents can call 480-312-PLAY.
In Scottsdale, flooding often affects Indian Bend Wash, which fills quickly with storm runoff and can close unbridged cross streets. Motorists are advised to obey warning signs and avoid specific crossings such as Roosevelt from Miller to Hayden roads; Osborn Road; Murray Lane; Oak Street at 77th Street; Medlock Drive at Hayden Road; Starlight Way at Hayden Road; Jackrabbit Road at Hayden Road; Pecos Lane at Hayden Road; and Safeway Plaza entrance at Hayden Road north of Chaparral Road. Other flood-prone areas include sections of 87th Street south of Thomas Road, 84th Place north of Roosevelt Street, Granite Reef Road south of Roosevelt Street, Gail Road at 83rd Place, Scottsdale Road north of Loop 101, and Pima Road north of Pinnacle Peak Road.
To help protect homes from flooding, the city offers sandbags free of charge on a first-come basis at Scottsdale’s Water Campus (88th Street & Union Hills Drive). Bags are provided but residents must bring their own shovels to fill them. City officials note that demand for sandbags is high during storms and cannot guarantee availability for everyone.
Alternative options for flood protection include flood diversion tubes—lightweight barriers that fill with water using a garden hose—and other products like transportable flood fence barriers or water absorbent cushions available from local hardware stores or online retailers.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for further storms by keeping supplies such as flashlights, batteries, and bottled water ready. More information about emergency kits is available at ready.gov/kit. Families should also plan how they will communicate during emergencies using guidance found at ready.gov/make-a-plan.
Before visiting any city parks or recreation areas this weekend, residents should call ahead since some closures may still be in place. The city’s call center (480-312-3111) provides up-to-date information on facility status.
“Above all,” officials said in a statement: “stay safe, be prepared and never underestimate the power of fast-moving water.”
