“We’re wandering down, we’re having a blast, we’re watching water gush off the sides of the canyon and it’s looking really cool. I’m following one of the waterfalls down with my eyes, and I was like ‘oh shoot, the road’s gone.” –Orrin Allen, Guest at Capitol Reef National Park.
Capitol Reef is the most under-the-radar national park in the state of Utah, and it’s a must-see if you ever make a trip there. Unfortunately, this year’s monsoon season has brought significant flooding problems to Capitol Reef. Yesterday, a flood watch was issued by the National Weather Service between 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. This followed heavy rain and flooding on Thursday, which has caused the following roads to remain closed: Scenic Drive, Grand Wash, and Capitol Gorge. According to KUTV, floodwaters moved and destroyed seven to eight vehicles in between Capitol Gorge and Grand Wash. Six people had to be hoisted or air-lifted because of the flooding, but luckily, no major injuries were reported. This seems like a good time to remind people that before you make a trip to a national/state park, please do your research on the weather and road conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch today, June 26, from 12:00 pm through 9:00 pm. Avoid hiking or driving in canyons and washes.
NPS Photo of flooding across SR 24 on June 23, 2022 pic.twitter.com/4HsauBkKIX
— Capitol Reef NPS (@CapitolReefNPS) June 26, 2022
A reminder that during monsoon season thunderstorms can develop quickly causing dangerous flash floods. Always check the forecast and avoid canyon areas when storms threaten. Thunderstorms are forecast through the weekend and more flash flooding could be likely.
— Capitol Reef NPS (@CapitolReefNPS) June 24, 2022
Monsoon season is here! Take a look at this dramatic flash flood video from this afternoon at Capitol Reef National Park. [Courtesy: Mike McPharlin] #utwx pic.twitter.com/iv0tcwnxRV
— Chase Thomason (@ChaseThomason) June 23, 2022
Image/Video Credits: Capitol Reef National Park, Chase Thompson/Mike McPharlin
