Redtail Air Adventures and the Tourism Leadership & Sustainability Foundation are collecting donations in Moab to assist families displaced by flooding in Montezuma Creek and Aneth. The organizations are collecting supplies to be flown and driven to a relief center in Blanding and other affected communities.
The Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Management ordered evacuations for Montezuma Creek and Aneth late Saturday, October 24. Approximately 150 residents left their homes overnight as the San Juan River rose. Residents in Montezuma Creek have experienced intense flooding and property damage, with some families remaining displaced as cleanup efforts begin.
Immediate needs for the affected communities include bottled water, non-perishable food, warm blankets, battery banks, portable chargers, firewood, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies. Redtail Air Adventures is currently accepting these donations at three Moab locations: Redtail Jet Center at 94 W Aviation Way, the Downtown Moab Footprints Building at 121 E 100 S, and Skyranch Airport. Donors are asked to provide 30 minutes of notice to Iris at 435-260-9438 to coordinate drop-offs.
The flooding caused significant impact, including the closure of major roads and bridges. According to longtime residents, the river crested at levels they had never seen before. Additionally, floodwater damaged a wastewater facility upstream, leading health officials to warn people to stay out of the river. San Juan County Commissioner Jamie Harvey assisted in coordinating logistics and timely drop-offs for the relief efforts.
Relief efforts are ongoing, and organizers stated they will share updates and a donation deadline as they become available.
