Multiple flood warnings and a flood watch are in effect for southeastern Utah as excessive rainfall continues to cause flooding in various waterways. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for San Juan, Grand, and Garfield counties, noting that flooding is already occurring in several locations.
In San Juan County, flooding is imminent or occurring in several areas, including Mexican Hat, Tselakai Dezza, Bluff, Halchita, Montezuma Creek, and Aneth. Local reports indicate that river gages showed high flow through McElmo Canyon. Specific drainages mentioned include the Toh Dahstini Wash, Tohache Wash, San Juan River, and Cowboy Wash. Additionally, flooding is occurring or expected in the Florida River, Spring Creek, Ute Creek, Salt Creek, and Dry Creek. One flood warning for San Juan County remains in effect until 9:45 a.m. MDT Friday, while another extends until 11:45 p.m. MDT, and a third remains in effect until 12:15 p.m. MDT Friday.
In Grand County, a flood warning is in effect until 11:45 p.m. MDT, affecting southwestern Grand County and northeastern San Juan County. This warning includes Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. Flooding is currently occurring or expected shortly in these areas, with between 0.5 and 1.5 inches of rain already having fallen. A flood watch also remains in effect through Friday morning for the Arches/Grand Flat, Canyonlands/Natural Bridges, and La Sal and Abajo Mountains areas.
In Garfield, Kane, and Wayne counties, a flood warning is in effect until 11:15 a.m. MDT Friday. Heavy rain from thunderstorms has been reported in Capitol Reef National Park, where flooding has already closed Highway 24 between mile markers 80 and 86. Residents in these areas should be aware of rapidly increasing flows in the Fremont River, Muddy Creek, and the Dirty Devil and its tributaries. Other locations expected to experience flooding include Hanksville, Torrey, Hite Marina, Ticaboo, Teasdale, Bullfrog, Halls Crossing, Cainville, Goblin Valley, and Fruita.
The National Weather Service warned that excessive runoff from rainfall may result in the flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and recent burn scars. Low-water crossings may become inundated and impassable. Officials advised the public to turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads, and to stay away from unstable river banks and culverts.
