At least three people have died after severe flash flooding swept through Globe, Arizona on Saturday. Emergency crews continue to search for victims, while officials warn that the number of missing remains unclear.
The city, home to roughly 7,200 residents and located about 90 miles east of Phoenix, has declared a state of emergency. Residents are being urged to remain indoors due to hazardous debris, compromised buildings, and chemical risks.
Search and Rescue Operations Underway
Carl Melford of Gila County Emergency Services confirmed that reports of missing individuals are being investigated. However, the exact number of unaccounted residents is not yet known.
Downtown Globe has been labeled unsafe due to damaged structures, propane leaks, and hazardous chemicals. Mayor Al Gameros revealed that around 1,000 propane bottles were released from a facility south of the city, with some leaking. Hazmat teams and air quality monitors have been deployed.
Melford emphasized the importance of keeping residents away from rescue areas: “They have a grid pattern. They have a strategy. They’re trained professionals. And any people going into an area that’s being searched by dogs… could actually interfere with the search.”
Severe Rainfall Leads to Widespread Damage
According to the National Weather Service, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport recorded 1.64 inches of rain on Friday, the highest single-day total since October 2018. The deluge sent torrents of muddy floodwater rushing through Globe’s streets.
Resident Jessica Weider, who was working in a downtown restaurant, said the flooding lasted about two hours. She captured video of vehicles, including a white car, floating through the streets. Mayor Gameros also confirmed that multiple vehicles were swept away.
“Currently our local swift water teams are in the process of searching all the washes,” Gameros said, adding that the city remains in “active emergency mode.”
Roads Closed, Shelters Opened
Flash flooding forced the closure of eastbound U.S. 60 at mile post 249 in Globe, with no timeline for reopening. The Gila County Division of Emergency Management has opened shelters, with additional sites being prepared.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid creeks, flooded roadways, and downtown Globe until further notice.
State and Federal Support Mobilized
Over 150 emergency personnel have been deployed. Hazmat teams are continuing to recover propane tanks scattered by the floodwaters.
Mayor Gameros acknowledged the support of state and federal leaders, including Rep. Eli Crane, Sen. Mark Kelly, and Gov. Katie Hobbs.
“It’s going to take all of us,” Gameros said, holding back tears during an emergency council meeting.
The Red Cross has established shelters at High Desert Middle School in Globe and Lee Kornegay Intermediate School in Miami.
What’s Next for Globe, Arizona?
With more rain forecasted, emergency crews remain on high alert. The city council has passed an emergency proclamation to aid in recovery efforts.
Residents are urged to shelter in place, avoid affected areas, and follow updates from local authorities as search and rescue operations continue.
