Storms close schools, flood roads, cause havoc
by David Boyle
News Director
Flooding in the southern part of the county caused closures at local schools and caused other delays and concerns last week.
Starting on September 16, excessive rain caused major travel hazards on unpaved roads in the county. With some school district busses facing challenges getting students home the afternoon of the 16th, the San Juan School District decided to close schools in Montezuma Creek, Monument Valley and Bluff on Thursday, September 17.
San Juan School District Superintendent Christine Fitzgerald said in an interview on Red Rock Radio 92.7 FM that the decision was made in the best interest for the safety of students and families.
“We always hate to close schools. We know the important terms of school for our students and our families, but safety is always our top priority.”
Fitzgerald said the decision was made after meeting with district leadership and input from bus drivers and transportation director Conan Benally.
Fitzgerald also noted input and support from the San Juan County road department, Utah Highway Patrol, and other first responders. Students who are bussed to schools in Blanding were also excused from school on Thursday and Navajo Mountain High had a shortened schedule.
Schools re-opened on Friday September 18.
As part of the re-opening, the district said they recognized that flooding, mud and impassable roads were still impacting some areas, asking those families impacted to contact their school administrators to be excused from school.
Over the weekend, officials also warned of possible flooding along the San Juan River and giving families a warning of that possibility.
Schools were back to regular operation on Monday, September 21, however possibilities of heavy rains continue, with the district committed to communication if there are further impacts to school.
The heavy rains had significant impacts across the Navajo Nation, including a flooding event in Two Grey Hills south of Shiprock, NM resulting in the death of three individuals in the early hours of September 16, according to Navajo Times.