Arizona flash flood sweeps away family relaxing in swimming hole, killing 9
Source: Washington Post
It began as yet another scorching Saturday in central Arizona as scores of families flocked to the cool waters of a popular swimming hole, seeking relief from the 100-degree temperatures in the cities.
Among them was an extended family of 14 from Phoenix. They gathered at the Cold Springs swimming hole in the Tonto National Forest, near Payson, to celebrate Maria Raya’s 26th birthday, their relatives told local media.
At about 3 p.m., it was barely drizzling as the Raya family and others waded in the water and hiked along the narrow canyon, its scenic waterfall and granite rock formations in the backdrop.
Suddenly the adults and children swimming in the canyon heard a roar. As they turned to look upstream, they saw a massive wall of dark muddy water rushing toward them, carrying tree trunks and logs the sizes of vehicles, Ron Sattelmaier, Water Wheel Fire and Medical District fire chief, told The Washington Post, citing interviews with witnesses.
Read more: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2017/07/17/az-flash-flood-sweeps-away-family-relaxing-in-swimming-hole-9-perish/?utm_term=.307bc2bb4ed9
I have no words.
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from the article it said that area had experienced drought and wildfires recently which reduced the ability of the land to soak up rain water.
It was hailing so some of the family waited it out before heading to the watering hole. And it sounded like there was just very light sprinkling rain that would not indicate any chance of a flood.
Damn, it sounds like a case of very bad luck.
I always wonder whether the National Forest--in this case--is understaffed because of budget cuts, and whether previously there would have been perhaps warnings posted on roads leading to sites under threat of natural catastrophes.
Not saying that this was the case, just that it's a possibility.
And, condolences to the family. What an awful thing to have happen.
