Department of Environmental Quality
Update on waterborne pathogen contamination in San Juan River due to flooding
BLANDING, UTAH, Oct. 30, 2026 — The San Juan County Public Health Department, in joint coordination with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Quality, has an update to the health advisory for the San Juan River and surrounding floodwaters due to high contamination levels of E. coli (an indicator of waterborne pathogens) due to recent flooding.
Recent sampling has shown that E. coli levels in the river are decreasing, however safety warnings are still in effect.
The local drinking water system is separate from the contaminated river. Your tap water is safe to drink.
Public directives & safety warnings
Stay out of the water: The public is strictly advised to avoid all recreation in the San Juan River and any standing floodwaters.
Do not consume: Under no circumstances should this water be used for drinking, cooking, hygiene, or other household purposes.
Protect vulnerable groups: Keep all children, pets, and livestock away from the river and flooded areas.
Monitor for symptoms: Ingesting contaminated water can cause severe illness. Symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, and rash. Pregnant women, young children, and immunocompromised people are especially vulnerable. Contact the Utah Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222 or a physician if you experience an illness that may be related to recreating in untreated surface water.
Guidelines for flood recovery workers
Waterborne pathogens can persist in wet environments for several weeks. Anyone assisting with flood cleanup and recovery must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gloves, mouth coverings, and eye protection. Recovery personnel should also ensure their tetanus vaccinations are up to date.
Contact
For further environmental health information, contact the San Juan County Health Department:
435-587-3838
publichealth@sanjuancountyut.gov
Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday (closed major holidays)
Local updates & resources
San Juan Public Health Facebook
Utah Division of Emergency Management Facebook
Utah Division of Emergency Management website
San Juan County Emergency Management
San Juan County Facebook
Navajo Police Department Facebook
Navajo Tribal Utility Authority Facebook
25th Navajo Nation Council Facebook
Navajo Nation Department of Transportation Facebook
Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Management - Monsoon 2026
Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Management Facebook
Bluff City Facebook
