Arizona’s iconic desert landscapes and sunny skies might fool newcomers into thinking the state is dry year-round. But every summer, the monsoon season brings sudden, intense storms that can unleash powerful flash floods with little warning. These fast-moving floods don’t just wash out roads — they can leave vehicles submerged, stranded, or severely damaged in a matter of minutes.
Understanding Flash Flood Risks in Arizona
Arizona experiences flash floods most frequently during the monsoon season, from June through September. Sudden downpours can overwhelm dry washes, canyons, and roadways, quickly turning them into rivers of fast-moving water. Urban areas like Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff aren’t immune either — streets and freeways can flood in minutes, trapping vehicles or sweeping them away.
According to the National Weather Service, just 12 inches of moving water can carry away a small car, while 24 inches can sweep away SUVs and trucks. Even shallow water can cause major engine, electrical, and interior damage if it enters your vehicle.
Does Standard Auto Insurance Cover Flash Flood Damage?
Not all auto insurance policies automatically cover flood damage. The key lies in whether you have comprehensive coverage included in your plan.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Liability coverage (which is required by Arizona law) only pays for damage you cause to other people or property. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle from any cause — including floods.
- Collision coverage helps pay for damage to your vehicle if you collide with another car or object but doesn’t cover weather-related events like floods.
- Comprehensive coverage is what protects your vehicle from non-collision incidents — including natural disasters like flash floods, hail, wildfires, vandalism, and theft.
If you have comprehensive coverage, your policy will typically pay to repair or replace your car if it’s damaged by a flash flood.
What Does Comprehensive Coverage Include for Flood Damage?
If floodwaters damage your car, comprehensive insurance generally covers:
- Engine and mechanical repairs
(if water enters the engine, transmission, or other vital systems) - Interior damage
(like ruined upholstery, carpeting, or dashboard electronics) - Electrical system repairs
(including wiring, lights, and onboard computers) - Body and paint damage
(from debris or prolonged submersion)
If your car is declared a total loss (meaning repairs would cost more than the car’s value), your insurer will typically pay you the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle, minus your deductible.
Important Exceptions to Know
Even with comprehensive coverage, there are a few situations where your claim might be denied:
- If you intentionally drive into a flooded area after road closures or warnings
- If you fail to report the claim promptly or neglect immediate steps to prevent further damage
- If your policy has lapsed or comprehensive coverage isn’t active at the time of the incident
It’s also important to remember that deductibles apply, meaning you’ll pay a set amount out of pocket before your insurance kicks in.
What If You Don’t Have Comprehensive Coverage?
If you opted out of comprehensive coverage to save on premiums, your vehicle won’t be protected from flash flood damage. In that case, you’d be responsible for the full cost of repairs or replacement yourself.
Considering Arizona’s seasonal flood risks, especially during monsoon months, adding comprehensive coverage is a smart move for most drivers — particularly if your vehicle is newer, financed, or valuable.
How to Stay Safe and Minimize Risk
The best way to avoid costly flood damage is to stay out of flood-prone areas during storms. A few tips:
- Never drive through flooded roads, no matter how shallow it looks.
- Keep an eye on weather alerts and monsoon warnings.
- Park your vehicle on high ground if storms are in the forecast.
- Consider comprehensive coverage before monsoon season begins.
Arizona auto insurance doesn’t automatically cover flash flood damage — but if you have comprehensive coverage, you’re protected. This essential policy option covers damage from floods, storms, and other non-collision risks, giving you peace of mind when Arizona’s unpredictable weather strikes.
If you’re unsure about your current coverage, now’s a good time to review your policy with your agent. A simple adjustment could save you thousands in repairs — and a major headache — down the line.
