Monitor the Weather
The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) oversees the National Weather Service (NWS). Both agencies help community decision-makers and residents understand the risks of severe weather, monitor threatening situations, and take action when necessary.
- General weather information: www.weather.gov
- The NWS Phoenix Office website will show local warnings for flood forecasts and all types of significant weather: https://www.weather.gov/psr/
- Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio. Forecasts and alerts are broadcast during emergencies.
The Maricopa County Flood Control District has a wealth of information and maps that are available on their website that allows floodplain views and elevation certificates in Maricopa County, as well as gauges that provide a real-time overview of how much rain has fallen during storms. These real-time gauges are very useful to see where the most rain has fallen and where the potential for flooding is in the valley.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides a number of handouts on floodplain related activities – from building and rebuilding in a floodplain to preparing for a storm. Listed below are just a few of the brochures that are available.
To learn more information about other hazards in your community, visit the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management website and review the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.
To learn about hazards and how to prepare for emergencies, visit www.ready.gov.