A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the Little Colorado River Valley across Coconino, Apache and Navajo counties, running Thursday morning through Thursday evening and again Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. At the same time, a flood watch now covers the Chuska Mountains, Defiance Plateau, Black Mesa and surrounding plateaus, effective Friday afternoon.

Thunderstorm watch targets Little Colorado River Valley on Thursday and Friday

The National Weather Service warned that the watch brings a risk of strong winds, heavy rain and large hail to the valley. residents in Coconino, Apache and Navajo counties are urged to stay indoors and avoid travel during the peak periods. According to the service, the watch will be active Thursday morning through evening and will resume Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Flood watch issued for Chuska Mountains, Defiance Plateau and Black Mesa

Heavy rain could trigger flash flooding in the mountainous terrain of the Chuska range, Defiance Plateau and the Black Mesa area. The flood watch, also from the National Weather Service, runs Friday afternoon into the evening, and officials say the threat to life and property is “significant.” The Arizona Department of Emergency Services has activated its emergency operations center and opened a 24/7 hotline (800‑842‑7290) for damage reports.

Wind advisory and dust‑storm warning add to travel hazards

A separate wind advisory covers the White Mountains and Eastern Mogollon Rim, with sustained winds up to 40 mph and gusts near 60 mph on Friday. meanwhile, the NWS warned of a dust storm reducing visibility in the Western Mogollon Rim and Little Colorado River Valley, prompting the Arizona Department of Transportation to caution drivers, especially on Highway 264.

Forecast through the weekend shows lingering precipitation risk

The service projects a 30% chance of rain on Saturday and a 20% chance on Sunday, suggesting the watches could extend into the weekend. state officials advise residents to monitor updates, secure outdoor items and be prepared for possible evacuations if conditions worsen.

Who will bear the brunt if flash floods hit?

While the flood watch lists several plateaus, the exact communities most vulnerable remain unclear. The NWS has not identified specific towns, and local authorities have yet to release detailed evacuation routes.