The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) is advising residents to prepare for a multi-day heavy rainfall event beginning Thursday, October 9, 2025, as deep tropical moisture from Hurricane Priscilla moves northward into Arizona.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Flagstaff, the greatest threat to Yavapai County is flash flooding, with the highest risk period expected late Friday, October 10, through Saturday, October 11, 2025.
Ashley Ahlquist, Emergency Manager for YCOEM, noted that while Hurricane Priscilla is weakening far to the southwest, the amount of tropical moisture being drawn into Arizona is significant. The NWS briefing highlights the potential for widespread showers and thunderstorms, with rainfall rates capable of producing dangerous, fast-moving flash floods. Ahlquist urged residents to prepare now—particularly those living near washes, creeks, or recent burn scars.
Unsettled weather will begin Thursday and persist through the weekend, with the period of greatest concern late Friday into Saturday. The NWS has upgraded the Excessive Rainfall Outlook to a Slight Risk for Friday, expanding across northern and central Arizona. Flash flooding remains possible countywide, as the precise location of the heaviest rainfall remains uncertain.
Due to burn scar vulnerability, areas affected by previous fires face a heightened threat of debris flows and flash flooding, as the ground’s ability to absorb water is significantly reduced. Residents in or below these areas should be prepared to evacuate immediately upon warning. This will be a long-duration event, with cooler, wetter conditions expected into early next week, further saturating the ground and prolonging flood risk.
With widespread rain and flash flooding possible, YCOEM urges residents to take precautions now. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”—never attempt to drive, walk, or bike through flooded washes or water-covered roads. Over 60% of flood fatalities occur in vehicles, and it takes very little moving water to sweep one away.
Residents are encouraged to clear property drainage, ensure sandbags are in place where flooding is common, and review flood insurance coverage. A list of sandbag locations is available at www.YavapaiReady.gov/sandbags.
Additionally, residents should charge devices and prepare emergency kits, ensuring phones and battery packs are fully charged and supplies—including food, water, and medications—are stocked for at least three days. Power outages are possible due to high winds and heavy rain.
Finally, it is critical to stay informed. Monitor local forecasts and sign up for local Emergency Notification Systems to receive emergency alerts by phone, text, or email at www.YavapaiReady.gov/alerts.
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit www.YavapaiReady.gov.
For official weather updates, follow the National Weather Service Flagstaff online and on social media.
