ST. GEORGE — Search and rescue teams were dispatched twice within a few hours Saturday evening as locals became stuck due to flooding and muddy conditions in Washington County.
At approximately 5:37 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff Search and Rescue team was dispatched to Squirrel Canyon after the area flooded, trapping campers near a remote waterfall, Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandon Lacagnina told St. George News.
The group realized they were stuck with no way to call for help. Luckily, a man on a dirt bike was nearby, who called search and rescue two hours later after exiting the canyon, Lacagnina said.
Because they didn’t know where the group was and due to stormy conditions, a Utah Department of Public Safety Star 7 helicopter was called to assist. The crew located the campers at the Squirrel Canyon amphitheater and began shuttling them to safety. Lacagnina said a total of 8 hikers, 6 dogs and loads of camping equipment were transported from the canyon.
“They were a really big help,” he said.
While the rescue effort was ongoing, the sheriff’s office received another call about a Jeep that slid off the road and became stuck in the mud at Smith Mesa. A deputy responded to the area while the search and rescue team continued their work at Squirrel Canyon. Lacagnina said the Jeep’s driver wanted to report the situation as an accident because of possible damage to the bottom of his vehicle.
An off-road wrecker was called to assist with the Jeep recovery, but due to the poor conditions, the company said they’d have to retrieve it later. Once finished at the other site, Lacagnina and another deputy drove to Smith Mesa, picked up the Jeep’s occupants and transported them back to the main road, where they were given a ride back to their Airbnb.
“They weren’t too far away from the paved road into the mud, so we were able to get them out pretty quickly,” he said.
No injuries were reported at either site.
Lacagnina said those outdoor recreators should be aware of the weather and road conditions to avoid finding themselves in similar situations.
“Even if it seems like you can get a couple hours in between storms or whatever, you got to know the area you’re going into and the risks that it poses,” he said. “If it does start raining again … If roads are starting to look bad, it’s best not to chance it. And don’t go into slot canyons when there’s been a lot of rain, and there will be continued rain.”
If a person finds themselves in an at-risk area, Utah State Parks advises seeking higher ground as soon as possible as flash floods can occur quickly, with no warning.
Signs that a flash flood is imminent include:
- Changes in water levels, color or speed.
- Debris in the water.
- Rushing water or loud noise.
- Stormy weather and rain.
Those heading outdoors should check the weather forecast and research flood hazards in their chosen area, the department writes. Additionally, they should keep pets leashed.
“Flash floods can occur suddenly, and unleashed pets may become disoriented or swept away by fast-moving waters, putting their lives at risk,” Parks staff states. “By keeping them leashed, you can ensure their safety and prevent them from getting separated from you during an emergency.”
Southern Utahns can check the National Weather Service website or download the mobile weather app to stay current on conditions.
The Hildale-Colorado City Fire Department also responded to the Squirrel Canyon search and rescue effort.
This report is based on preliminary statements from law enforcement officials and may not contain the full scope of findings.
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