Flash flood watch for Pinal County; sandbags available in Maricopa

After the dust comes the rain. A flash flood watch is in effect from 4 p.m. through Wednesday evening for northwest and north central Pinal County.

The city of Maricopa has sandbags available to help residents prepare.

Abundant moisture from Mexico interacting with the southern end of a Pacific low pressure system will lead to the potential of extensive showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service. Some of these thunderstorms may produce very heavy rain.

There is potential for flooding or flash flooding as heavy rain can fall in a very short time. Normally dry washes, city streets and low-lying areas can quickly swell with water, so motorists should drive with caution. Flooding is difficult to see at night.

Sandbags are available:
•    On the east side of town at the end of West Bowlin Road near Hartman Road (by Fire Station 572).
•    On the west side of the city (in front of the old city hall) on West Garvey Ave near Wilson Road.

Residents need to bring their own shovel to fill the bags.

Emergency Operations Center personnel are monitoring the storms and will update the community as necessary.

The City of Maricopa Fire Department would like to remind residents to exercise safety when severe weather hits. It is not uncommon for major dust storms to move through the City of Maricopa during monsoon season.

If you find yourself driving during a dust or monsoon storm, keep these safety tips in mind:
•    Turn on your headlights and slow down!
•    If you can safely avoid it, do not enter a dust storm.
•    If heavy rain or dust impede your visibility, slowly pull off to the side of the road as far to the right as possible.
•    Turn off the car and headlights including emergency flashers, set the parking brake and keep your foot off the brake pedal and keep your seatbelt on.
•    Pay attention to hazard signs and roadblocks. If you see a sign that says “Do Not Cross When Flooded,” take it seriously and find another way. Don’t cross rain-swollen washes. You could get caught in a flash flood.
For more information, please visit www.maricopa-az.gov.