GILA BEND, Ariz. — Two people are dead and several others have been rescued in Gila Bend after severe flooding filled the area overnight Friday.
MCSO said that, as of Saturday afternoon, two people have died as a result of the flooding in Gila Bend.
One of the victims was identified as Jesus “Pancho” Perez.
MCSO and Fire agencies rescued at least 30 people from the rooftops of their houses and more than 100 people are displaced from homes.
The city is concerned that floods may have killed people experiencing homelessness. Officials said evacuations out of the area are ongoing.
Gila Bend mayor, Chris Riggs, declared a State of Emergency in the community due to all of the flooding Saturday morning. American Red Cross is assisting those in need in the area and is set up at Gila Bend High School. The Gila Bend Community Center is open for those needing to evacuate.
Maricopa County also declared a local emergency, allowing access to emergency funds to support response efforts to Gila Bend.
Gila Bend officials said people are still missing and asked residents to check-in by commenting on their Facebook page or by texting town clerk, Beverly Turner at 623-734-6504.
SR 238 from Gila Bend to Maricopa is also closed in both directions due to flooding.
Areas across south-central Arizona received one to three inches of rainfall last night. The National Weather Service said any additional showers and thunderstorms will be capable of producing flash flooding with rain rates of up to 1-2 inches per hour leading to rapid runoff into washes, small streams and poor drainage areas.
Arizona Weather
Arizona has seen its fair share of severe weather. Here is a compilation of videos from various storms across the Grand Canyon state.