Significant and historic flooding is occurring across southwest Colorado and southeast Utah, according to a notice issued by the National Weather Service Grand Junction, CO. This is described as a particularly dangerous situation as widespread rainfall is expected to continue through Monday.
The flood warning is in effect until 4:15 PM MST Monday. The affected areas include southern San Juan County in southeastern Utah, as well as western Archuleta County, western Dolores County, southeastern La Plata County, Montezuma County, and west central San Miguel County in southwestern Colorado.
Local law enforcement reported heavy rain in the warned area, noting that between 1.5 and 3 inches of rain have already fallen. This rainfall has caused flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying or flood-prone locations.
Many local roads have become flooded and impassable, with some roads having washed out or collapsed completely. Due to these conditions, it is recommended that residents in the warned area do not travel this evening or overnight.
Specific locations identified as experiencing or prone to flooding include Durango, Blanding, Mexican Hat, Cortez, Pagosa Springs, Dolores, Dove Creek, Ignacio, Aneth, Montezuma Creek, White Mesa, Bluff, Tselakai Dezza, Halchita, Goulding, Hovenweep National Monument, Towaoc, Arriola, Yellow Jacket, and Lewis.
Excessive runoff is expected to increase flooding risks. Officials warn that most flood deaths occur in vehicles and advise people to turn around rather than driving into flooded areas. Caution is advised at night when it is more difficult to recognize the dangers of flooding.
The current flood warning remains in effect until 4:15 PM MST Monday.
