Governor declares state of emergency due to flooding in San Juan County

Utah Governor Spencer Cox declared a state of emergency in San Juan and Washington Counties following the extensive flooding in southern Utah.

The Governor’s declaration allows the state to deploy additional resources including equipment, personnel and emergency supplies to respond to needs in San Juan County. The move also unlocks funds from the state as well as the ability to ask for federal funds.

The declaration notes the extensive damage to roadways in San Juan County in particular the washout of the Comb Wash Bridge.

The declaration is in effect for 30 days with the state legislature able to extend the declaration as needed.

Flooding occurred in southern San Juan County in October with extensive flooding on the weekend of October 25th, Halloween weekend and November 4 impacting communities located along the San Juan River in particular Bluff, Aneth, and Montezuma Creek communities.

Flooding also impacted other spots in the county with flooding closing part of highway 191 north of Monticello and impacting homes and infrastructure in various spots throughout the county.

Locals have also spearheaded relief efforts with local Navajo Nation Chapter houses, Utah State University Blanding and the Bluff Community Foundation all leading local efforts to provide relief to neighbors.

Additional health hazards have existed with elevated E. Coli levels along cottonwood wash and the San Juan River. Health officials emphasize that neither people, livestock or pets should consume the water in any form. 

Bacterial risks means officials also recommend that those in contact with flooded areas wear personal protective equipment while cleaning flooded areas.