Flash flood watch lifted for southern, central Arizona

PHOENIX (AP/KSAZ) -- Parts of Arizona could get drenched by rainfall , and communities are helping residents prepare for possible flooding from a low-pressure system moving across the state.

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood watch for southern and central Arizona as well as parts of northern Arizona into late Tuesday.

Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe and Apache Junction were among metro-area cities which on Monday were distributing either free sand, bags or both to residents, typically at fire stations.

The weather service said there could be between 1 to 2 inches of total rainfall in the deserts in lower elevations through Tuesday morning but up to 3 inches in some mountain areas.

Forecasters said the rain could flood washes, creeks and other drainage areas.