As residents of Globe and Miami, Arizona continue to grapple with the aftermath of recent severe flooding, the forecast of more rainfall has the towns on edge. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, there's a 20% chance of rain as soon as Wednesday, with potential totals exceeding two inches. The community is still in recovery mode from the deluge that took place nearly two weeks prior, a natural disaster that claimed three lives in Globe.
In preparation for further inclement weather, both towns have mobilized to distribute necessary supplies to safeguard against potential damage. Globe officials are providing sandbags at The Teepee by the public library and the Public Works Yard, while Miami has partnered with Team Rubicon to deliver the same to their residents as detailed on the town's Facebook page. Residents can contact Miami Town Hall or the local Team Rubicon emergency center to arrange for sandbag delivery. Both Globe and Miami are also urging their communities to avoid flood-prone areas during heavy rain and remain vigilant.
In a town hall meeting recently held, distress and disappointment were voiced by the citizens seeking relief and sustainable solutions to the recurring flood issue. "We lost everything," one resident publicly declared, echoing a sense of loss and frustration rippling through the townsfolk. David Berrey, a local business owner, told 12 News he faced an overwhelming task with around 15 tons of mud in his garage after the floods.
While Gila County Emergency Manager Carl Melford acknowledged the limitations in the face of such calamities, stating, "No amount of mitigation measures could have prevented this," residents at meeting remained unconvinced, as per 12 News. The pushback against Melford's admission points to a deeper issue of accountability and action within local governance. Community members continue to press for effective strategies in flood mitigation and management, seeking more than just temporary fixes or resigned acknowledgments of the difficulty of their situation.
Both the state and local officials have committed to working on future mitigation projects with Gila County officials assuring the provision of state and federal resources. However, they have also specified that such initiatives must be rooted at the local level. For residents needing information on damage assessments or disaster assistance, contacts have been provided and the Gila County Fairgrounds have been designated as a hub for disaster assistance, open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
