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The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for the area, including the Town of Queen Creek. Afternoon thunderstorms have the potential to produce locally heavy rain, up to two inches. The current flash flood watch is in effect until 9 p.m. tonight.
In preparation for the storm, the Town of Queen Creek is offering sandbags to residents. Sandbags are available at the corner of Ellsworth Road and Crewse Lane (across from Founders’ Park and just south of the Dog Park), and at Fire Station 2, located at 24787 S. Sossaman Road. Residents will need to bring their own shovels. Sandbags should only be filled half full. Pre-made sandbags are available for residents of Goldmine Estates at the entrance to the community. Sandbags can be used to redirect small amounts of storm water and debris, typically up to two feet.
To create a sandbag barrier:
Fill the bag half full
Fold the top of the sandbag and rest the bag on the fold, and continue stacking the sandbags with care
Limit to three layers unless there is a building being used as support, or they are placed in a pyramid
Tamp each sandbag into place, completing each layer before starting a new one
Ensure there is a path for the water/debris that is being redirected
Lay a plastic sheet between the building and the bags
Residents are also reminded to avoid travel during flash floods. Most flash flood deaths occur in vehicles; moving water one to two feet deep will carry away most vehicles. If travel is inevitable, do not drive into flooded roadways or go around barricades. Additionally, do not play, or allow children to play in flood waters.
For more safety information, visit the National Weather Service Phoenix Office. Visit QueenCreek.org for additional information about the Town. To stay updated on activities and events in Queen Creek, follow the Town at Facebook.com/QueenCreek or Twitter.com/TOQC_official.
There are news or informational items frequently written by staff or submitted to the Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner, Superior Sun, Pinal Nugget or Oracle Towne Crier for inclusion in our print or digital products. These items are not credited with an author.
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