Flood Risk and Snow Threaten Southwest US
Flood Risk and Snow Threaten Southwest US
US · Published Oct 21, 2026
• Tropical moisture from Hurricane Trudy is set to bring significant rainfall and potential flooding to the Southwest United States this week.
• The Weather Prediction Center forecasts rainfall rates as high as 2 inches per hour, with some areas in the Desert Southwest expected to receive up to 5 inches of rain.

Impact & Risks

The heavy rainfall poses a significant risk of flash flooding, especially in areas with burn scars and narrow canyons. Travelers in national parks and outdoor areas should remain vigilant, as debris flows and landslides are possible. Saturated soils will exacerbate flooding risks, and severe weather, including large hail, gusty winds, and isolated tornadoes, is expected in parts of Arizona, southern Utah, and western New Mexico. In higher elevations, snowfall could create hazardous travel conditions, particularly in the Sierra and Rockies, where up to a foot of snow may accumulate in isolated areas.

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