The remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel merging with a fall-like storm system over the western United States brought moderate to heavy rainfall and a threat of flooding, according to a hydrologic outlook issued October 8.
The expired alert noted that widespread rainfall of 1 to 3 inches was expected, with local amounts potentially exceeding 3 inches, particularly across south aspects of southern Utah mountains between late Saturday and Monday morning.
According to the October 8 statement from NWS Salt Lake City UT, many area waterways—including streams, rivers, creeks, normally dry washes, and slot canyons—were expected to have rising, fast flows by Sunday evening.
While current forecasts did not bring any rivers to flood stage, officials noted the situation would be monitored as details of heavy rain bands became more certain. Those with activities near rivers, streams, creeks, or recent burn scars were advised to closely monitor the forecast over the following days.
The alert, which expired on October 9, suggested that those with outdoor plans from Sunday onward involving travel near waterways across Utah should consider alternate plans.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms were expected to remain possible through at least Wednesday. While rainfall rates from additional precipitation rounds were expected to be generally lower, areas receiving significant precipitation during the weekend were noted to be sensitive to any additional rainfall.
