Arizona faces two rounds of heavy rain and flooding

Arizona is preparing for two significant rounds of heavy rainfall between Friday and Sunday. Forecasters warn that because the ground remains saturated from previous destructive flooding, new storms could cause rapid water accumulation in washes, creeks, and low-water crossings.

The first round of storms is expected Friday, with rainfall rates potentially reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour. Flood watches have been issued for the Phoenix metro area, rural Maricopa County, western Pinal County, and portions of Gila and Yavapai counties.

A second, more intense storm driven by an atmospheric river is forecasted for Saturday night into Sunday. This event is expected to bring 1 to 1.5 inches of rain to Phoenix and between 2 to 3 inches to higher terrain north and east of the city. Officials anticipate a more expansive flood watch will be necessary for this second weather system.