ST. GEORGE — With showers and thunderstorms forecast for most of the day Wednesday, the National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for much of Washington County and a flash flood watch for parts of Southern Utah.
Flash flood warning
Areas affected by the flood warning include St. George, Washington, Hurricane, Santa Clara, La Verkin, Hildale, Virgin and Rockville. Sporadic heavy rainstorms are forecast to continue to strike Washington County for the rest of Wednesday and into the night. The flood warning for Washington County is in affect until 4:15 p.m.
All streams, dry washes and rivers in the area, including the Virgin River, Santa Clara River and Fort Pierce Wash are running high with water, according to the weather service. These areas are expected to remain high through the day.
Flooding over roadways is also possible. Part of South River Road was closed Wednesday at about 9 a.m. due to flooding over the roadway.
Read more: Traffic alert: Flooding causes road closure on South River Road
Flash flood watch
The flash flood watch has been issued for much of the area east of Interstate 15 and south of state Route 40. This includes Zion National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, the area around Lake Powell and Dixie National Forest. Other cities that could be affected by the flash flood watch include Kanab, Panguitch, Hanksville, Escalante and Bryce Canyon City.
Numerous thunderstorms are expected to fall along the tops of mountains Wednesday, which has potential to cause flash flooding across Southern Utah, according to the weather service. The flash flood watch will be in affect through Wednesday evening.
Flash flooding can cause concern near burn scars, slick rock, slot canyons and normally dry washes. In case of a flash flood, immediately seek higher ground and stay out of rivers, washes and slot canyons.
Most flood deaths occur in vehicles, according to the weather service. When encountering flooded roads, the weather service encourages drivers to turn around and avoid driving through flood waters.
Read more: What to do before, during, after a flash flood
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A paved road leading to an unbuilt development off the Airport beltway washed out, “Desert Canyons Parkway”, completely gone… and possibly another road or two near the Motocross proving grounds.
I hope it rains again. I will go white water rafting under the fort pierce bridge!