A flood warning was issued on November 2, 2026, for the San Juan River due to excessive rainfall. The National Weather Service reported that flooding is expected along the river from the Four Corners through Mexican Hat, Utah.
The flooding impacts several specific locations, including Bluff, Montezuma Creek, and Aneth. Officials noted that river levels continue to rise because of excess runoff from rainfall that occurred on Sunday. The river reached a stage of 20.4 feet at 11:30 AM MST on November 2, 2026, while the bankfull stage is 22.0 feet and the flood stage is 23.0 feet.
Forecasts indicate the river will rise to 22 feet late on the evening of November 2, 2026. A secondary crest near 23.5 feet is expected near Bluff early Thursday morning, after which the river is forecast to fall below flood stage. Flood waters are expected to reach the Four Corners on Wednesday evening and the town of Bluff early Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service Salt Lake City issued a separate warning for southwestern San Juan County in southeastern Utah. This warning, which was in effect until 8:00 AM MST Tuesday, noted that high flows would continue toward the terminus at Lake Powell through Tuesday morning. The crest has already occurred at Bluff.
Authorities advised the public to turn around, do not drown when encountering flooded roads, as most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Caution is advised at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Officials stated it will take several hours for all water from these storms to work through local drainage systems.
The flood warning for the San Juan River is in effect until 5:15 PM MST Thursday.
