8/4/16 – Reports of flooding across northern portions of Apache and Navajo Counties are being submitted to the National Weather Service by trained Weather Spotters. Up to 2 inches of rain has fallen over the past few hours with steady moderate to heavy rain continuing. Many dirt roads have flooding underway and some may soon become impassable. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning until 3:15 MST today.

Some locations that will experience flooding include Round Rock, Red Rock, Goulding, Navajo National Monument, Monument Valley visitors center, Chilchinbito, Tsegi, Mexican Water, Totacon, Twin Falls, Kayenta, Cove Chapter House, Rock Point, Forest Lake Chapter House, Red Mesa, Rough Rock, Lukachukai, Shonto, Teec Nos Pos and Many Farms.

Remember “Turn around, Don’t drown!” when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

8/3/16 Noon
Size: 1,887 acres in size in light to medium fuels Percent Contained: 100%
Cause: Lightning Resources Assigned: one Type 6 engine
Summary: The Elk fire is burning southwest of Turkey Mountain on the Lakeside Ranger District and smoke may be visible from the communities of Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low, as well as State Highway 260 and U.S. Highway 60. Fire managers made the decision to confine this lightning-caused fire to accomplish multiple objectives. On July 29, crews completed burn out operations to extend the confinement area. The fire is expected to continue burning interior pockets of unburned fuels and stump holes within the fire area until completely extinguished by monsoonal rains.

8/2/16 – The National Weather Service has forecast deep monsoon moisture which will lead to frequent and widespread shower and thunderstorm activity today. A weak area of low pressure may enhance the potential for heavier rain tonight.

A Flash Flood Watch has been expanded in area coverage and extended through Wednesday evening.

The watch now includes Yavapai County, northern Gila County, southern Coconino County, southern and central Navajo County and much of Apache County.

Make sure to use caution and never drive through washes with running water as swift moving currents can and will move vehicles and large objects.

High moisture values will persist through Thursday before a drying trend develops late in the week and into the weekend.