Governor Spencer Cox has issued a state of emergency for Beaver, Piute, and Sevier counties following severe flooding. The declaration is set to last for at least 30 days and is intended to expedite assistance from both state and federal agencies.
The flooding has caused significant disruptions in Beaver County. Local officials in Beaver have warned residents to avoid using running tap water for drinking, brushing teeth, food preparation, or making ice due to contamination following flash floods. In the Grove neighborhood east of Canyon Ballfield, water services have been affected.
Flood waters have reached Interstate 15 and the Grove neighborhood. The National Weather Service has advised residents to be prepared for potential evacuations at any moment as more rain is anticipated.
The recent flooding is being linked to burn scars from the Cottonwood Fire. Local and state officials previously told KUTV that monsoonal moisture could lead to significant flooding in Beaver Canyon due to these burn scars.
The Cottonwood Fire has caused extensive damage, growing to over 96,000 acres with 58 percent containment. The fire has resulted in the destruction of approximately 150 structures, while officials estimate another 130 structures have been damaged. Some areas, including Merchant Valley, Hi-Low, and Kents Lake, have seen limited access for property owners under the supervision of the Beaver County Sheriff.
