Heavy rains over the Memorial Day weekend caused flash flooding in the canyons of Southeastern Utah which killed one and endangered several others who are lucky to be alive. Today, The Salt Lake Tribune reported that an Ohio man died yesterday as the result of a whitewater rafting accident on the Colorado River. Dennis Young of Columbus was wearing a helmet and a life jacket when he flipped his raft in the Skull Rapids of Westwater Canyon along the Utah – Colorado border, but he may have been in the water upward of 20 minutes; the suspected cause of death is that Mr. Young passed out because of cold water temperatures and then drowned.
Earlier in the weekend, a large group was in the Kane Creek Canyon recreation area when a wall of water several feet hight came barreling toward a several vehicles on the canyon floor. An adult in the group of 15 saw the approaching water and yelled for everyone to make it to higher ground. The group reported that the wall of water reached a depth of at least 6 feet before it engulfed and swept their vehicles away. Grand County (Utah) search and rescue teams also rescued two other groups stranded by water over the weekend.
Flash floods are unpredictable, fast moving and very dangerous. Several organizations offer excellent information which can be helpful in identifying the risks of flash flooding and tips on what to do if you find yourself in one. One such organization is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) national severe storms laboratory. Their website indicates that flash floods are the number one weather related killer and that half of all such deaths are automobile related. The website offers the following information on identifying risks:
FLASH FLOOD or FLOOD WATCH:
Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area – be alert.
FLASH FLOOD or FLOOD WARNING:
Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent – take necessary precautions at once!
URBAN and SMALL STREAM ADVISORY:
Flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.
FLASH FLOOD or FLOOD STATEMENT:
Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event.
and the following precaution:
Just six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of two feet will float your car! NEVER try to walk, swim or drive through such swift water. STOP! Turn around and go another way.
There is also information on what do when faced with specific types of flash floods:
Indoors
- Abandon your home immediately if evacuation is recommended, before access is cut off by flood water.
- Get to higher ground.
Outdoors
In a vehicle
Other good sources of information include the American Red Cross, Flood Safety and Weather Eye.
Be aware and stay safe!
