8:35am MST Update; Southeast California and Arizona Tropical Storm Threat

While the Gulf Coast is rightly concerned about Isaias, there is reason to be concerned that the remains of Pacific Hurricane Rachel could be the most serious storm in southeast California and Arizona since 1976's Hurricane Kathleen. 

Flooding Rains

As much as five inches is forecast along the path of the storm with isolated higher amounts.

It is entirely possible the forecast path may shift east or, especially, west on later forecasts. Given this is a desert, there is little doubt that these rains will cause significant flooding. Roads and railroads could be washed out. 

Damaging Winds

Again, this path of higher winds could shift east or west with time but with gusts to near 80 mph, considerable damage is possible, including loss of power. 

When comparing to Hurricane Kathleen, please recall the population of the area is much higher now than it was 50 years ago, so the potential for damage is greater. 

Of course, I will keep you updated.