This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Much of southern and central Utah — including Zion, Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon national parks — is under a flash-flood watch until Thursday night.
The National Weather Service issued the watch as heavy rains and thunderstorms move through the region. People should avoid slot canyons, dry washes and streams, where fast flowing waters can trap and kill hikers, according to the alert.
"Flooding of urban areas with poor drainage and basements," the alert states, "is also possible."
Affected areas are the San Rafael Swell, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Powell and Zion National Park. Cities that could see flooding include Price, Hanksville, Emery, St. George, Kanab, Escalante, Loa and Panguitch.
Zion National Park is delaying a helicopter-powered waste removal project near the Angels Landing trail due to the weather warning, according to The Associated Press.
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