Severe flooding in the Four Corners region led to water rescues, impassable roads, and evacuation orders in Colorado and New Mexico, with some residents advised to shelter in place.
Flooding in the Four Corners region, which includes Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah, prompted water rescues, including from rooftops, and impassable roads. Residents in low-lying areas of Colorado and New Mexico were ordered to evacuate, while others were told to shelter in place until water levels receded. Earlier in the week, tornadoes in Arizona caused damage to homes and infrastructure, with at least one person injured.
Rescue efforts continued on Friday, with New Mexico guard boats, helicopters, and amphibious vehicles assisting in evacuations. Officials reported that some homes had 3 to 4 feet of water, and rising river levels exceeded forecast crests. In Farmington, about 600 households were told to evacuate, and areas along the San Juan River were closed off. A flood warning in Rio Chama noted that the current extent of flooding along the San Juan River had not been observed since before the completion of Navajo Dam.
Why it matters
Rescuers are responding to flooded homes and blocked roads in the Four Corners region, forcing some residents to leave low-lying areas.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch whether Utah officials will issue further evacuation orders as flooding continues to impact homes and infrastructure.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.