A flood watch remains in effect for portions of southeast Utah and southwest Colorado through Friday afternoon, as heavy rainfall continues to saturate the region. The National Weather Service has warned that excessive runoff from moderate to heavy rain could lead to flooding in rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas across the Four Corners area.
Weather Alerts for Southeast Utah
The National Weather Service Grand Junction has issued a flood watch for several areas, including southeast Utah and the San Juan Mountains. The advisory, which remains in effect through Friday morning, covers several communities including Blanding, Oljato-Monument Valley, Monticello, and Moab. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor weather forecasts closely and be prepared to take action if flooding develops.
Storm Impacts and Rainfall
The threat of flooding is driven by a potent Pacific storm system that has been drawing deep moisture into the region. According to the National Weather Service, this moisture is generating widespread showers and thunderstorms. In some locations, fast-moving thunderstorms may produce locally heavy rain at rates exceeding 1 inch per hour. These conditions increase the risk of flash flooding, particularly in areas prone to flooding like slot canyons, steep terrain, and recent burn scars.
San Juan School Closures
In San Juan County, the weather has already necessitated school disruptions. The San Juan School District reported that due to heavy rain, muddy conditions, and flooded roads, schools in Bluff, Montezello Creek, and Monument Valley were closed on Thursday, September 17, 2026. As a result of the unsafe travel conditions, students residing in those communities who travel to schools in Blanding were excused from attendance.
Impact on Transportation
The district also noted that school bus routes serving Bluff, Montezello Creek, Monument Valley, and surrounding areas, including those transporting students to Blanding schools, were suspended on September 17 due to road conditions. The San Juan School District emphasized that the safety of students and staff remains the highest priority during such inclement weather events.
Hydrological Concerns
Hydrologists are monitoring the potential for significant runoff as rain falls on already saturated ground. The National Weather Service Grand Junction noted that rainfall amounts in the southern mountains could range from 1 to 3 inches, with higher totals of 2 to 4 inches possible in the San Juans and southern foothills. In some areas of the southern San Juans, precipitation totals of 4 to 5 inches are possible.
Rain on Snow Risk
The combination of heavy rain and existing snowpack is contributing to the risk. Weather officials indicated that snow levels are forecast to remain above 12-13 thousand feet, which may result in melting some of the existing early-season snowpack. This rain-on-snow phenomenon is expected to cause a rapid rise in many creeks, streams, and rivers, with several rivers potentially reaching bankfull or higher at river forecast points across southwest Colorado and southeast Utah.
Forecast Outlook
While the current weather system is expected to begin winding down by Friday afternoon, the National Weather Service warns that unsettled weather may continue through the weekend. The current flood watch for the eastern San Juan Mountains and Upper Rio Grande Valley is expected to remain in effect through Friday afternoon.
