Potential for Flooding in the Southwest with Heavy Snow Continues

news image
Special Stories
22 Feb 2020 3:35 PM

SETUP

A wave of energy has moved into the southwest bringing plenty of rain and snow to the region. This will be much needed after an extended period of dry weather, however it may be too much at once for some areas.  

FLOOD ALERTS

Flash flood watches have been issued for Central Arizona, including the Phoenix metro area and the I-10 corridor. These watches last through Saturday evening. The greatest risk for flash flooding will be east of Phoenix, especially in the mountains and foothills. Rain totals could approach one to two inches in the area indicated by the slight risk for excessive rainfall.  

WINTER WEATHER ALERTS

Winter weather advisories have also been issued for several mountain ranges from Southern California through Southwestern Colorado.  

FORECAST

Widespread rain will continue for the remainder of the Saturday with snow finally picking up in Utah and Colorado by this evening. Once we dive into Sunday morning, the precipitation will be more in the form of snowfall into the higher elevations. Gradually snow levels will drop and places such as Denver and Colorado Springs will see their fair share of snow throughout a majority of the Sunday.  

FORECAST RAIN AND SNOW

The heaviest rain over the weekend is expected to fall in Arizona and New Mexico, with mostly light accumulations elsewhere. Snow totals could top a foot in the mountains of New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. Aside from the flooding concerns, this weekend's rain will be beneficial for the region which is experiencing widespread drought conditions. Spring training games being held around the Phoenix area could be impacted by this storm. Stay with WeatherNation through the weekend for updates and live coverage of this storm system.
All Weather News
More
Arctic Air Returns This Weekend

Arctic Air Returns This Weekend

WHAT TO EXPECTDecember brought record warmth

28 Dec 2026 3:30 PM
Severe Threat Increasing in the Midwest Today

Severe Threat Increasing in the Midwest Today

WHAT TO EXPECTA cold front will move through

28 Dec 2026 1:30 PM
Top Weather Events of 2025

Top Weather Events of 2025

As 2025 wraps up, we're taking a look back at

28 Dec 2026 11:40 AM
Record Warmth For One More Day

Record Warmth For One More Day

Unseasonably warm temperatures continue to pr

28 Dec 2026 11:40 AM
Another Round of Ice and Snow for the Northeast

Another Round of Ice and Snow for the Northeast

As we are coming off the heels of our last wi

28 Dec 2026 11:40 AM
Another System Brings Rain, Snow, and Ice to the Northeast

Another System Brings Rain, Snow, and Ice to the Northeast

Winter alerts are in place across the Northea

27 Dec 2025 3:30 PM
Flooding Risk In California Continues

Flooding Risk In California Continues

CALIFORNIA - Over the past few days, tropical

26 Dec 2025 3:15 PM