More than eight inches of rain fell in some parts of the state within hours. This is more rainfall than the state might receive during an average year. This type of heavy rain in an area which is unused to such a deluge produces some unexpected dangers. Flooded roads are only one potential problem caused by heavy rain. In the case of 264 East in Arizona the problem was caused by heavy rainfall but not in the way you might expect.
A severe thunderstorm a day earlier had sent water over a bluff and onto a portion of the highway that runs along a cliff, washing out about six feet of dirt beneath the road. Transportation crews responded with dirt and millings to fill the ground and build up the shoulder.
Arizona Department of Transportation has erected some temporary repairs so drivers can use the roadway. Drivers had been facing significant detours during the closure of the highway, which runs through the Navajo and Hopi reservations to New Mexico. Permanent repairs are expected to begin later this week.
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