Payson Roundup

Gila County residents who still have flooding issues or need assistance after a thrash of winter storms hit Northern Arizona in January can get help in Tonto Basin Wednesday through Saturday.

Beginning March 10, Gila County citizens with disaster-related needs or questions can visit the newly relocated State Individual Assistance Service Center at the Tonto Basin Kiwanis Community Center, 227 Old Highway 188, in the Punkin Center Business District. The center is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, according to a press release from the Arizona Department of Emergency Management.

Visitors are asked to bring identification and be prepared to describe their need.

Parts of Punkin Center, Tonto Basin and Gisela were severely impacted by record precipitation in January.

Residents who live on the east side of Tonto Creek are still unable to leave the area because all three crossings remain closed.

This hasn’t stopped some residents from attempting to cross, regardless of the road-closed signs posted on each side of the roaring creek. On Friday, Patricia Jean Thomas got stuck in the Tonto Creek Store Crossing after attempting to drive her car through despite the warnings. Gila County Sheriff’s Office deputies and the Tonto Basin Fire Department rescued Thomas and Four Peaks Towing pulled the car out of the creek. Thomas was cited for reckless driving.

For more information on the center, call (928) 978-3141.