Full Breakdown
Catastrophic Flooding in Globe, Arizona: A Community in Crisis
9/28/2025, 9:50:16 PM
Overview of the Flooding Event
On September 26, 2025, central Arizona experienced catastrophic flooding due to torrential rains, particularly impacting the city of Globe, located approximately 90 miles east of Phoenix. The flooding resulted in at least four confirmed deaths, with three victims found in Globe and one in Scottsdale. The intense rainfall, which reached 2.5 inches within a short period, overwhelmed local infrastructure, leading to widespread destruction and hazardous conditions.
Emergency Response and State of Emergency
In response to the disaster, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs declared a state of emergency for Gila County, authorizing the deployment of the National Guard to assist in recovery efforts. The governor expressed her sorrow for the affected families, stating, “I’m heartbroken by the devastation in Gila County, my thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones and the residents whose lives have been impacted.” The declaration also released $200,000 in aid to support ongoing rescue operations.
Search and Rescue Operations
Search and rescue teams, including over 100 personnel from various agencies, have been deployed to locate missing individuals and assess the damage. Globe Mayor Al Gameros emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Our primary objective is search and rescue due to numerous vehicles that have been swept into the wash.” The search efforts have faced challenges due to ongoing rain, which has complicated operations.
Hazmat Concerns and Community Safety
A significant concern arising from the flooding is the scattering of approximately 1,000 propane tanks from a local distribution facility, creating a hazardous materials emergency. Gila County Emergency Manager Carl Melford noted, “This has caused a major hazmat issue,” and hazmat teams have been deployed to address the situation. The city has urged residents to avoid the downtown area due to compromised buildings and hazardous debris.
Community Impact and Local Responses
The flooding has left many residents in distress, with reports of individuals trapped in buildings and others climbing onto rooftops for safety. Local officials have opened evacuation shelters at Lee Kornegy Intermediate School and High Desert Middle School to assist displaced residents. Community members have expressed their desire to help, but authorities have cautioned against uncoordinated volunteer efforts that could interfere with professional search and rescue operations.
Criticism and Opposition
Some local officials have criticized the preparedness and response to the flooding, highlighting that the severity of the event was unprecedented. Public Works Director John Angulo remarked, “There wasn’t enough sandbags, there wasn’t enough equipment. I don’t think there’s enough warning that could have helped us prevent what has happened.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern about the community's resilience to extreme weather events.
What's Next
As recovery efforts continue, authorities are assessing the damage to infrastructure and historic buildings in Globe. The National Weather Service has issued ongoing flash flood warnings, indicating that additional rain may exacerbate the situation. Local officials are committed to providing support and resources to the community as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m heartbroken by the devastation in Gila County, my thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones and the residents whose lives have been impacted.” — Governor Katie Hobbs
- “Our primary objective is search and rescue due to numerous vehicles that have been swept into the wash.” — Mayor Al Gameros
- “This has caused a major hazmat issue,” — Carl Melford, Gila County Emergency Manager
The situation in Globe remains dynamic, with ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and recovery of the community.
