Climatology of Flash Flood Warnings in the Southwestern United States from 2003–2023

Keywords: Flash flood, southwest US, geographic information systems
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

Flash flooding is a major problem in the United States which poses a great risk to human life and property. The global rise in temperature caused by climate change is likely to have an impact on trends in flash flooding throughout the United States. Understanding what these trends are and how they pose a hazard to society is key to preparing for the future and preventing deaths and losses due to flash flooding. In this study, a quantitative analysis is performed on the National Weather Service’s flash flood warning data from the years 2003–2023. These data are available through the Iowa Environmental Mesonet run by Iowa State University. Analysis reveals general characteristics, patterns and trends within flash flood warning frequency, quantity, and extent for counties throughout the Southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. Patterns are related to daily weather maps from the National Weather Service to describe typical conditions leading to flood events. Land cover change is also considered as a variable increasing flooding events. Overall, the conclusions of this study provide information that can be used to prepare for increased flash flooding and highlight areas more at risk than others from flash flooding.