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Storms and Monsoon Weather

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Are You Monsoon Ready art facebook cover

BEFORE THE STORM

The City of Tempe encourages residents to be prepared for potential flooding. In the case of severe weather, this page will be updated with tips and information. If you've experienced storm damage, please report it to Tempe 311 by calling 480-350-4311, emailing tempe311@tempe.gov or visiting www.tempe.gov/311.  

Storm Preparedness Checklist
Are you ready for the storm? Read this to know what to do before, during and after storms.    

Disaster Supply KitFamily Disaster Supply Kit
All families should pack a 3-day bag of supplies including: 1 gallon of water per person/pet per day, nonperishable food, flashlights, radio, batteries, medications, first aid kit and a back-up power source for cell phone chargers and medical equipment. 

 

Sandbags
The City of Tempe has sand and bags available at two locations throughout monsoon season, which begins on June 15 and ends Sept. 30. The bags can be picked up 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Prior to a major storm event, bags are available on a first come, first served basis. Be prepared by picking them up before a storm is headed our way. The two locations are:  

Solid Waste Compost Facility: 1001 N. Rio Rd (access drive north of Rio Salado Parkway and Hardy Drive, near free compost)

Benedict Sports Complex: 490 W. Guadalupe Rd (northwest corner of Guadalupe and Kyrene roads) – east side of parking lot

 

Operation Sandbag
Free sandbags and safety tips on Thursday, June 7 from 4-7 p.m. at the Solid Waste Compost Facility. Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department cadets will be on-site to help residents prepare sandbags, while also providing tips on how to weather the storm. 

Keep storm drains clean of debris 
The flooding of streets, sidewalks and homes can be much worse if the city's storm drains are blocked by debris. You can help prevent that by disposing your yard waste in trash receptacles. If you notice excessive amounts of debris near a storm drain, report it to Tempe 311 at 480-350-4311. Click here for more stormwater tips. 

Prepare your home

  • Trim trees so they are away from windows and roofs
  • Clear debris from your roof drainage system, including gutters and downspouts
  • Pretreat pools with chlorine shock to help prevent algae growth
  • Don’t apply fertilizers or other outdoor chemicals before expected storms
  • Secure loose items on your property, such as patio and pool furniture
  • Unplug expensive electronics (TV, stereo, home entertainment centers and computers) and/or install power protection devices

DURING THE STORM

News and Information
In the event of a severe weather alert, the City of Tempe will post news and information on this page. Follow us on Facebook @CityofTempe and Twitter @TempeGov to stay up to date on street closures and bus detours. You can also sign up for e-notifications by visiting www.tempe.gov/StreetClosures. 

Current Storm Information
No storm news at this time.

Street Closures & Restrictions
No storm-related road closures at this time.

Valley Metro Bus Routes & Detours
No storm-related detours at this time.

Power Outage
SRP: View, report or sign up for power outage alerts.
APS: View, report or sign up for power outage alerts. 

Flash Flood Safety

Flash floods are the #1 thunderstorm-related killer, with most deaths occurring in vehicles. Be sure to avoid flooded areas and low-water crossings.

  • Moving water 1-2 feet deep will carry away most vehicles
  • Keep children away from creeks and washes when heavy rain is in the area
  • Be especially careful at night when water depth and road conditions are harder to see
  • Do not play or swim in flooded areas; water may be contaminated with chemicals and bacteria
  • Wash hands and disinfect any items that come in contact with flood waters

Lightning Safety

  • No place outside is safe from lightning during a thunderstorm
  • Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from a storm
  • If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you
  • Move inside a strong building or an enclosed hardtop vehicle
  • Avoid contacting inside wiring and plumbing during a thunderstorm; this includes appliances and corded phones
  • Stay in shelter for 30 minutes after the last thunder
  • If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 for help immediately

Other Safety Tips

  • Bring pets indoors because they are likely to panic or run away to escape the storm
  • Avoid downed power lines, call 911 to report them
  • If a power line comes into contact with your vehicle, remain inside the vehicle until help arrives, do not attempt to get out
  • Follow traffic control signage and barricades; if a traffic signal is out, treat the intersection as a 4-way stop

AFTER THE STORM

If you've experienced dangerous storm activity, please call 911 if it is an emergency, such as a downed power line or an injury. You may call the Tempe Police non-emergency number if it is not an emergency at 480-350-8311 anytime or call Tempe 311 at 480-350-4311 during business hours. 

Need help cleaning up? Call one of the city's pre-approved landscaping companies for professional assistance. Visit the Tempe Landscape Referral page for details.

Street and park flooding

Please report flooding that occurs in city streets and parks. The city cannot respond to flooding in residents' homes.  

Storm debris 

  • Storm debris that IS blocking intersections, major roadways, alleyways or posing a safety concern, contact non-emergency police at 480-350-8311
  • Storm debris that IS NOT blocking intersections, major roadways, alleyways or posing a safety concern, contact Tempe 311 at 480-350-4311
  • Important note: the City cannot respond to debris that has fallen on a resident's property. Residents have a few options for debris cleanup:
    • Chop up the debris and follow the Bulk Trash Collection guidelines and timelines for free collection. Please keep the debris in your yard until it is time for your bulk trash collection
    • Chop up the debris and contact a landscaper for cleanup if you require a more immediate response

Additional resources