CEDAR CITY — Heavy rain was causing local flooding of streets and neighborhoods as a string of powerful storms continued to move across Southern Utah Thursday.
A flood advisory originally was in effect for Iron County until 4:45 p.m. but was cancelled at 3:08 p.m. and replaced by a flood warning.
Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive
rainfall was expected, according to the National Weather Service. Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas is imminent or already has transpired.
Due to the severity of the storm, the Iron County School District issued the following alert:
Parents, As you are aware, inclement weather is making travel difficult as the school day ends. Buses will be delayed. Conditions in some areas mean it is not safe to release children to walk home. Schools will shelter students until it is safe for parents to pick them up. Communication is down at several schools due to power outages. Please be patient as we work to keep students safe.
According to the weather service, at 2:53 p.m., “Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms. This will cause urban and small stream flooding. Between 0.25 and 0.75 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.5 to 1 inch are expected over the area. This additional rain will result in minor flooding. Some locations that will experience flooding include Cedar City, Enoch and Hamilton Fort.”
If out driving and you encounter flooding, the weather service reminds drivers to “turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”
This is a developing story.
Updated 3:44 p.m. Aug. 18, 2023: Adds Iron County School District alert.
Updated 4 p.m. Aug. 18, 2023: Updates downgrade from flood advisory to flood warning.
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