As the monsoon season approaches, so does the risk of flooding. The Arizona monsoon season starts on June 15th and ends on September 30th. Monsoon thunderstorms typically produce half of the yearly precipitation for central and northern Arizona, and as a result, can cause severe damage and a sudden onset of flooding, commonly known as Flash Flooding. The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) and Yavapai County Flood Control District (YCFCD) would like to remind residents to take measures to prepare themselves and their homes for a flooding event, especially if they live in a FEMA-designated flood zone or an area prone to flooding.
Sandbags can help protect your home against major floodwater damage. Residents of Yavapai County can fill sandbags for free at any of the 23 sandbag-filling locations around the county. Remember to bring your own shovel to the sandbag filling stations, as they are not provided. To find the nearest sandbag filling station, visit www.YavapaiReady.gov/Sandbags.
Other ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home include:
Understanding common flood and weather terminology is vital to know what actions, if any, you should take:
For more flooding preparedness information and tips, visit www.YavapaiReady.gov/flood. To find more information on FEMA-designated flood zones and flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), visit www.YavapaiAZ.gov/ycflood.