Globe, AZ, October 15, 2025
U.S. Highway 60 near Globe, Arizona has reopened following several hours of closure due to severe storm damage and flash floods. Emergency crews worked overnight to clear debris and restore safety to this vital transportation route, which connects eastern Arizona to the Phoenix metropolitan area. Motorists are advised to remain cautious as minor repairs are ongoing along the roadway. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the highway’s closure.
Globe, AZ – U.S. Highway 60 Reopens After Severe Storm Damage and Flash Floods
U.S. Highway 60 near Globe, Arizona, reopened this afternoon after being closed for several hours due to severe storm damage. Flash floods from recent heavy rainfall washed out sections of the road, but emergency crews worked overnight to clear debris and stabilize the route, allowing traffic to resume safely.
The highway, a critical corridor connecting eastern Arizona to the Phoenix metropolitan area, sustained significant but repairable damage from the storms. No injuries were reported in connection with the closure, and authorities confirmed that all affected sections are now passable. However, motorists are urged to drive cautiously as minor repairs continue along the route.
Details of the Storm Impact
The closure occurred amid widespread flash flooding across southern Arizona, triggered by record-breaking rainfall that hit the region earlier this week. In nearby areas like Tucson, the wettest day in over a year led to additional disruptions, including daring rescues of drivers trapped in flooded vehicles. Near Globe, the intense downpours caused rapid water surges that eroded roadbeds and deposited large amounts of debris, making the highway impassable starting late yesterday.
Crews from state and local departments responded immediately, deploying heavy equipment to remove mudslides and fallen rocks. By early morning, stabilization efforts focused on reinforcing weakened areas to prevent further erosion. The highway’s reopening marks a key step in restoring normal travel conditions, though officials noted that full repairs could take additional days depending on weather patterns.
Traffic was rerouted during the closure, leading to delays for commuters and freight haulers who rely on this route through the rugged terrain of the Tonto National Forest area. The highway’s importance cannot be overstated; it serves as a lifeline for remote communities and supports economic activities like mining and tourism in Gila County.
Background on Regional Weather Events
This incident is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather in Arizona this fall. Recent storms have brought much-needed rain to the arid state but also caused hazardous conditions. In Tucson, for instance, cleanup efforts are underway after the area recorded its highest single-day precipitation in more than 12 months, leading to flooded streets and power outages. Similar flash flood risks prompted warnings across southern Arizona, with the National Weather Service highlighting the dangers of sudden water rises in washes and low-lying roads.
Arizona’s monsoon season, typically ending by late September, has extended into October this year, contributing to these unusual events. Climate patterns suggest that warming temperatures could intensify such storms, increasing the frequency of road washouts and emergency responses. State transportation officials have invested in flood-resistant infrastructure in recent years, but events like this underscore the ongoing challenges of maintaining roads in flood-prone zones.
While the highway near Globe is now open, drivers should monitor updates from the Arizona Department of Transportation for any lingering hazards. The focus now shifts to completing repairs and preparing for potential follow-up storms, ensuring public safety as the region transitions into cooler fall weather.
In related developments, other Arizona roads affected by the storms, including sections near Phoenix, have also seen rapid recovery efforts. The state’s resilience in the face of these natural events continues to be tested, with communities pulling together for swift restoration.
Safety Recommendations for Motorists
As repairs wrap up, authorities emphasize the need for vigilance. Key advice includes avoiding flooded areas, reducing speed in construction zones, and checking real-time traffic apps. This proactive approach helps minimize risks and supports the smooth flow of traffic on this vital artery.
The reopening of U.S. Highway 60 not only relieves immediate pressure on alternative routes but also signals effective coordination among response teams. Arizona residents and travelers alike can now navigate the area with greater ease, though the reminder of nature’s power lingers in the freshly stabilized road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did U.S. Highway 60 near Globe reopen?
U.S. Highway 60 near Globe reopened this afternoon after severe storm damage closed it for hours.
What caused the closure of U.S. Highway 60 near Globe?
Flash floods washed out sections of the road.
What actions were taken to reopen the highway?
Crews worked overnight to clear debris and stabilize the route.
Are there any ongoing concerns for drivers on U.S. Highway 60 near Globe?
Motorists are urged to drive cautiously as minor repairs continue.
Were there any injuries from the highway closure incident near Globe?
No injuries from the incident.
Key Features of the Highway 60 Reopening
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Reopening Time | This afternoon after closure for hours |
| Cause of Closure | Flash floods washed out sections of the road |
| Response Efforts | Crews worked overnight to clear debris and stabilize the route |
| Current Status | Motorists urged to drive cautiously as minor repairs continue |
| Injuries Reported | No injuries from the incident |
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