Flooding in Globe, Arizona Results in Four Fatalities and Significant Damage
In Arizona, a torrential downpour has claimed four lives and wreaked havoc in the historic mining town of Globe. The deluge, which saw approximately 2.5 inches of rainfall within 24 hours, forced residents to seek refuge on rooftops as floodwaters carried away around 1,000 propane tanks from a local distributor, scattering them across downtown.
The town of Globe, nestled about 88 miles east of Phoenix and home to roughly 7,250 people, was struck by the intense storm on Friday. Another storm temporarily curtailed search efforts for potential flood victims on Saturday due to rapidly flowing creeks.
Nearby, the mining town of Miami experienced street flooding, though no injuries were reported, according to Carl Melford, the emergency manager for Gila County. Additionally, 20 tourists stranded by flooding on the Havasupai Reservation, known for its breathtaking blue-green waterfalls, were evacuated. The remote area, only accessible via foot, mule, or helicopter, is notorious for flooding, as noted by Bureau of Indian Affairs dispatcher Shaileen Gonzales.
In Globe, the discovery of three bodies—two inside a vehicle and one in the floodwaters—has been confirmed by Melford, although identities remain undisclosed at this time. Another tragic incident occurred near Phoenix, where a body was found underneath a walkway bridge after being swept away in a vehicle caught in fast-moving waters the previous night.
Authorities in Globe are actively investigating reports of missing individuals. “We now have a massive search and rescue underway,” said Melford. The town’s emergency response has been challenged by the rapid flooding, which saw a propane distributor’s inventory scattered across the area. Fortunately, no propane tanks ignited or exploded, thanks to swift intervention by hazmat teams.
The region’s susceptibility to flooding was evident in 2021 following a wildfire, yet this recent storm has been unprecedented in its intensity. Melford described the situation as “an extremely heavy amount of rain in an extremely short period of time.”
Social media videos depict the devastation, with vehicles being swept away and smashed against poles, while large propane tanks litter the streets. Authorities are advising residents to refrain from entering floodwaters to avoid disrupting search and rescue operations. Instead, they encourage community members to support friends and neighbors in need.
The city council of Globe has declared an emergency, with Mayor Al Gameros noting the extensive damage to downtown buildings. “Our primary, again, is search and rescue,” Gameros emphasized, urging residents to stay clear of affected areas until safety can be assured.
Local volunteers have been instrumental in the recovery efforts, as the community rallies together in the face of this natural disaster.
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