Phoenix Fire crews pull stranded drivers from deep water

Emergency personnel extracted dozens of drivers from vehicles trapped in rising waters across the Phoenix area late Friday night and early Saturday. The rescues occurred as intense rainfall continued to flood local roadways. Crews operated through the night to reach stranded motorists in various parts of the Valley.

One incident near 40th Street and Camelback Road in Phoenix involved a driver who entered water approximately four feet deep. A second vehicle subsequently entered the same flooded section. In Scottsdale, rising water made a roadway impassable, trapping another car. Officials stated that every rescue incident was preventable.

Capt. Mike Johnson of the Phoenix Fire Department urged residents to limit travel during the storm. He noted that water often appears slow but can exert enough force to move a vehicle or stall an engine. Johnson advised drivers to stay home if travel is not essential due to the ongoing weather conditions.

Emergency officials provided specific metrics regarding water depth hazards. They indicated that six inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet. Twelve inches of water is sufficient to carry away most vehicles. These figures serve as benchmarks for drivers assessing risk on wet roads.

Johnson warned that additional rainfall forecast through Sunday will strain local infrastructure. He explained that the ground is already saturated, meaning minimal new precipitation will fill washes and low-lying areas. This saturation threatens to overwhelm washes, overpasses, and intersections quickly. First responders remain on standby to conduct further rescues as needed.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as rain persists. They remind motorists to seek alternate routes and avoid driving through flooded roads. The primary directive for drivers is to exercise caution and recognize the immediate danger posed by standing water on streets.