Flash floods ‘expected’ in central, southern Utah, forecasts warn

The National Weather Service upgraded the chance of flash floods in central and southern Utah to “expected” on Wednesday morning, a designation it described as “unusual,” with a flash flood warning in place until 10 p.m.

“Today is not a day to venture into slot canyons, normally dry washes and other flash flood prone areas,” the weather service warned.

The warning includes many of Utah’s national parks as well as recreation areas. The weather service advised visitors to check with local ranger stations or visitor centers before heading out — and to have a plan in case of inclement weather.

In the following areas, the chance of flash floods is “expected”: Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Zion national parks, as well as Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and San Rafael Swell. This means that “many slot canyons, dry washes and small streams are expected to experience flash flooding,” according to the weather service.

In the following areas, the chance of flash floods is “probable”: Arches and Canyonlands national parks, as well as Natural Bridges Natural Monument and Grand Gulch. This means that “some slot canyons, dry washes and small streams are expected to experience flash flooding,” according to the weather service.

The danger in many of these areas looks like it will decrease on Thursday, forecasts state.

In case of a flash flood, people should get to higher ground. Do not drive into flood waters, and stay informed of weather alerts via social media, weather radio, TV or other means, according to the weather service.

The town of Alta in Little Cottonwood Canyon experienced heavy rainfall Tuesday afternoon that covered portions of State Route 210 with water, mud and debris. The town was under a flash flood warning through 7:15 p.m. Tuesday. Heavy rain and showers are expected in the area through at least Thursday, forecasts state.

For more information, visit weather.gov/slc/flashflood.