ST. GEORGE — A flash flood warning for Washington, Iron and Kane counties was issued at approximately 12:30 p.m. Thursday and will run through 3:30 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service, “Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area.” Specific locations where flooding is occurring or imminent include Zion National Park, La Verkin, Virgin, Springdale, Rockville and Kolob Canyon.
Thunderstorms are expected to produce rainfall of 1.0-1.15 inches per hour, The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 1.5 inches in one hour. Additionally, “Life-threatening flash flooding of slot canyons, normally dry washes and other vulnerable areas throughout Zion National Park,” the NWS reported.
At 1:46 p.m., a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Garfield County. The weather service reported that a strong system was moving northeast at 20 mph and was located 22 miles west of Escalante.
Wind gusts of 50 mph and nickel-size hail are expected, making minor damage to outdoor objects possible.
The weather service also reminds drivers of the following when encountering flooded roadways:
- Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
- Remain alert for flooding even in locations not receiving rain. Dry washes, streams, and rivers can become raging killer currents in a matter of minutes, even from distant rainfall.
Updated 1:50 p.m.: Aug. 10: Garfield County information added.