A severe weather system is causing life-threatening flash flooding and thunderstorms across multiple states, including southern Utah and parts of Arizona and New Mexico. National Weather Service agencies have issued various warnings for thunderstorms, hail, and flooding due to excessive rainfall.
In Utah, a flash flood warning is in effect for West Central Kane County and East Central Washington County until 6:45 PM MDT. This warning includes Zion National Park and Springdale, where thunderstorms are moving into the park from the south. Additionally, a flood warning remains in effect for San Juan County until 7:30 PM MDT, specifically impacting low-lying areas along McElmo Creek between Cortez and Aneth. In southeastern San Juan County, a flood warning is also active until 9:45 PM MDT, affecting areas like Oljeto and Navajo Mountain Trading Post.
A widespread flood warning is in effect for several counties in central and northern Arizona, including Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties, lasting until 8:15 PM or 9:00 PM MST. In Coconino County, heavy rainfall has caused a nearly 6-foot rise in the Oak Creek at Sedona. The Paria River in Coconino County is also experiencing life-threatening flash flooding, with water levels having risen nearly 6 feet. In Apache County, the Chinle Creek at Chinle was reported at a stage of 3.6 feet, approaching a flood stage of 4.0 feet.
Severe thunderstorm warnings are active in several Arizona locations, including Greenlee County, Santa Cruz County, and Pinal County. In northern Greenlee County, a warning is in effect until 4:30 PM MST for areas including Hannagan Meadow and Blue, with hazards including ping pong ball size hail and 60 mph wind gusts. In central Santa Cruz County, a warning is in effect until 4:15 PM MST for areas like Tubac and Rio Rico. In Pinal County, a warning is in effect until 4:15 PM MST near the Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness.
Tornado watches remain in effect for several areas. A tornado watch is valid until 9:00 PM MDT for portions of southwestern New Mexico, including Grant and Hidalgo counties, as well as parts of San Juan, Catron, Cibola, and McKinley counties. Additionally, a tornado watch is in effect until 8:00 PM MST for portions of Southeast Arizona and north central Arizona. A severe thunderstorm watch is also in effect until 9:00 PM MDT for Colorado counties including Archulet, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, San Juan, and San Miguel.
Officials advise residents to move to higher ground immediately and avoid driving through flooded roadways, noting that most flood deaths occur in vehicles. The National Weather Service in Albuquerque noted that the next statement for the San Juan River at Farmington will be issued Friday afternoon at noon MDT.
