On Sunday, Nov. 1, Sedona officials ordered the immediate evacuation of parts of the city’s eastern neighborhoods as Oak Creek rose rapidly. Evacuation orders are also in effect on White Mountain Apache tribal land.
According to the City of Sedona, Zones 8, 9 and 10 were placed under “GO” status, meaning residents must leave their homes immediately. The order applies mainly to areas around Oak Creek, from central Sedona south to Chapel Road. Residents and tourists are directed to Sedona Red Rock High School, where a shelter has been set up for evacuees.
The Sedona Fire District said rescue crews are working to help several people trapped in homes by quickly rising water. The city reminds people to stay away from creek beds and dry riverbeds (washes) and not to drive through flooded roads. Full information on the evacuation zones is available on the city’s emergency management website (sedonaaz.gov).
Evacuations were also announced in Cedar Creek on White Mountain Apache land. According to the tribe’s Emergency Operations Center, residents of buildings along the river in Cedar Creek and on River Road are under “GO” status and should leave immediately. People who need help can use transportation provided, and everyone should follow instructions from police and emergency services.
Some River Road residents were placed under “SET” status. They do not have to leave yet but should be ready to evacuate quickly if the water keeps rising. Officials advise packing medications, clothing, flashlights and phone chargers, checking evacuation routes and looking in on elderly neighbors.
According to AZFamily, Canyon Day Junior High is taking in evacuees. Chief Alchesay Activity Center is being prepared, and the room at Cibecue Elementary School has reached its capacity. According to Weather.com, a moist weather system known as a “pineapple express” is flooding Arizona and other southwestern states.
Source: AZFamily
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