Gov. Brewer declares state of emergency after storm blasts Phoenix area

PHOENIX — Gov. Jan Brewer declared a state of emergency Monday after a record-shattering rainfall overpowered the Valley.

I am declaring a statewide emergency for areas impacted by today’s severe rainfall and flooding. #TurnAroundDontDrown #azwx

— Jan Brewer (@GovBrewer) September 8, 2014

Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton quickly followed suit.

In response to storms and flooding, I have declared a state of emergency in #Phoenix and activated the city's Emergency Operations Ctr.

— Greg Stanton (@MayorStanton) September 8, 2014

The National Weather Service said nearly three inches of rain fell on Greater Phoenix in seven hours, washing away a 75-year-old single-day mark.

Schools were closed, among them elementary, high schools and Grand Canyon University and Valley cities were making sand available for residents to make sandbags to protect homes and businesses.

Brewer also asked that nonessential state workers remain safe at home.

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