Grand Canyon Times

Arizona responded to monsoon flooding in Coconino County by issuing a Declaration of Emergency and deploying the Arizona National Guard.

“When Arizona communities are in need, we come together,” Gov. Doug Ducey said on Friday. 

“In the last week, we’ve seen just that," he said. "In a community already impacted by wildfires, the monsoon season presents dangerous challenges. This fire season has already been extremely active and it’s crucial that our local officials and leaders continue to have the resources they need to respond to the aftermath of heavy rains. We’re grateful for the National Guard members, local officials, first responders, agency partners, safety personnel, and community members who have been working tirelessly to protect people, pets, and property.”

There were also statements from first responders.

“When called upon, we volunteered beside our emergency responders and community members,” DEMA director Maj. Gen. Kerry Muehlenbeck said in a press release. “I couldn’t be more proud of DEMA’s more than 8,300 citizen soldiers, airmen, and civilian staff who are always ready, and always there to support the communities we serve.”

Government agencies also took to social media to praise volunteers and first responders.

"800 pallets = 56,070 individual sandbags filled. Today, 60 #DEMA service members continue to support @CoconinoCounty #AlwaysReadyAlwaysThere for Arizona," the Arizona National Guard said in a tweet. 

Other government organizations followed suit.

"Shout-out to @usaconservation @AmeriCorps members & the @AZNationalGuard for their collaborative efforts in @CoconinoCounty. Thank you for stepping up to protect homes from flooding!" the Arizona Governor's Office of Youth, Faith & Family said in a tweet.