Governor Spencer Cox has issued a state of emergency for Beaver, Piute, and Sevier counties after heavy flooding hit the region. The declaration, which will last at least 30 days, is designed to accelerate help from both state and federal agencies.
This follows recent flash flooding in Beaver that reached Interstate 15 and the Grove neighborhood. The National Weather Service has advised residents to be prepared for potential evacuations as more rain is likely.
In Beaver, officials have issued warnings to residents regarding tap water safety. Due to contamination following recent flash floods, the city warned against using running tap water for drinking, food preparation, brushing teeth, or making ice. The area in Grove east of Canyon Ballfield was specifically noted as having no service.
Governor Cox has pledged support to assist Beaver in rebuilding after the weekend's flooding. During an event at the Days of 47 Rodeo, the Governor stated he has been in communication with the mayor and county commissioners regarding the recovery efforts.
The region continues to face various environmental challenges. In Wayne County, deputies discovered the body of a young male in a wash near the Sunglow Campground area of Bicknell on the evening of July 17. Search and Rescue operations were activated following the discovery.
Mientime, burn scars from the Cottonwood Fire are presenting new flooding hazards. Local and state officials told KUTV that monsoonal moisture could lead to significant flooding in Beaver Canyon, prompting state recommendations for residents to prepare with sandbags.
Other recent incidents in the area include a coal train derailment near Levan, where a Union Pacific Railroad locomotive went over a small bridge near Mills. The incident caused some coal to ignite, resulting in smoke over Juab county.
Additionally, for Pioneer Day, Parowan City is implementing a targeted ban on fireworks, restricting discharge to a single designated area. Cedar City will also limit fireworks use to the period between July 24 and July 25.
