Prescott declares state of emergency as flooding hammers parts of Arizona

Key Points:

• Prescott Mayor Cathey Rusing declared a state of emergency due to heavy rainfall causing significant flooding and overtopping Watson Lake Dam, prompting activation of the city's Emergency Operations Center.
• Watson Lake Dam overtopped with water inflow peaking over 4,000 cubic feet per second, while Upper Goldwater Reservoir also topped; city officials are closely monitoring all dams for structural concerns.
• Multiple road and low water crossing closures are in effect throughout Prescott, including major streets and crossings, with traffic signals out at some intersections requiring drivers to treat them as four-way stops.
• Sand and sandbags are available at three fire station locations for residents, who must bring their own shovels and fill bags themselves.
• A shelter has been opened at Yavapai College Prescott Campus Gymnasium for residents displaced by flooding, with emergency services reachable via 911 and non-emergency flood assistance through Yavapai County Emergency Management.