Deadly Deluge Engulfs Globe, Arizona—Cars Swept Away, Residents Trapped on Roofs
In a terrifying overnight disaster, torrential rains triggered catastrophic flash flooding in Globe, Arizona, killing at least three people and submerging streets, vehicles, and homes. The small city—home to roughly 7,000 residents located 90 minutes east of Phoenix—was overwhelmed when Pinal Creek burst its banks Friday night, turning roadways into raging rivers and forcing emergency rescues well into Saturday.
What Happened in Globe?
According to Gila County emergency officials, the sudden downpour caused rapid flooding that caught many residents off guard. Vehicles were swept away, propane tanks dislodged, and some people had to climb onto rooftops to escape rising waters. Emergency crews from across the region joined the search, temporarily halting operations Saturday afternoon due to ongoing storm threats.
Key Impacts of the Flood
- 3 confirmed deaths in Gila County
- Over 1,000 propane tanks swept from a storage facility—raising hazmat concerns
- Main highway through Globe washed out
- Multiple vehicles submerged or flipped in floodwaters
- Residents in Globe and neighboring Miami urged to shelter in place
Flood Timeline & Conditions
| Time/Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Friday night | Heavy rains cause Pinal Creek to overflow |
| Saturday morning | Rescue operations begin; 3 bodies recovered |
| Saturday afternoon | Globe City Council declares local disaster |
| Saturday evening | 40% chance of additional thunderstorms (NWS) |
Community in Crisis
“The devastation downtown is just unbelievable,” said Mike Stapleton, Globe’s vice mayor. “I’ve never seen anything like this.” Mayor Al Gameros confirmed emergency coordination with Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs’ office and noted that crews were inspecting every vehicle in the debris field for possible victims.
[INTERNAL_LINK:flash flood safety] experts warn that even shallow, fast-moving water can be deadly—just 6 inches can knock a person off their feet, and 12 inches can carry away most cars.
Infographic: Before and After the Flood
Caption: A vehicle trapped in flood debris in Globe, Arizona, after Pinal Creek overflowed. (Credit: The New York Times)
