Periods of moderate to heavy rain are expected in Scottsdale and the surrounding areas as a slow-moving weather system moves through the Valley today and tonight. The National Weather Service has indicated that northern and eastern Maricopa County will see the greatest impact, with additional rainfall between 0.5 to 1.5 inches possible through tonight. There is also a 10–15% chance of thunderstorms, which could bring brief heavy rain, gusty winds, lightning, and small hail.
While Scottsdale itself is not currently under a Flood Watch, city officials urge residents to remain prepared as conditions may change quickly. Another weather system is forecasted for late Thursday into Friday, likely bringing more widespread rain across the region. Temperatures are expected to stay below normal until Saturday before returning to typical seasonal levels early next week.
Residents in Scottsdale may experience short periods of intense rainfall that could lead to slick roads and reduced visibility. The city encourages everyone to stay alert for changing conditions and take precautions to protect themselves and their property.
Before heading outdoors or visiting local parks, sports fields, recreation areas, or the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, residents should check for any trail or facility closures due to wet or unsafe conditions. Information is available by calling the city’s call center at 480-312-3111 or visiting ScottsdaleAZ.gov for real-time updates.
Flooding in Scottsdale often affects Indian Bend Wash, which can fill rapidly with storm runoff and force closures of unbridged cross streets. Motorists are reminded to obey all warning signs and avoid crossing flooded washes or roadways due to the dangers posed by fast-moving water.
To help shield homes during storms, Scottsdale provides sand and empty bags on a first-come, first-served basis at two locations: near 88th Street and Union Hills Drive at the Scottsdale Water Campus, and at the Scottsdale Police Department District 1 on E. McKellips Road. Bags are free but residents need to bring their own shovels for filling them. Supplies may be limited during major weather events.
Other flood-prevention tools such as diversion tubes, portable flood fencing, and water-absorbing barriers can be found at hardware stores or online retailers.
The city recommends building an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, drinking water, and other basic supplies; more information can be found at ready.gov/kit. Families should also have a communication plan in place—guidance is available at ready.gov/make-a-plan—and follow official updates from the city on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X for information about changing weather conditions.
