Severe Flooding Disrupts US West

Source reports published 23 Oct 2026, 9:35 am – 10:00 am AEST

Extensive flooding across Arizona, Nevada, Southern California, and parts of Utah and New Mexico triggered rooftop rescues and evacuations. Residents faced impassable roads and rising river levels, prompting emergency responses.

What happened

• Severe flooding impacted the Four Corners region, including areas in Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah.
• The flooding resulted in water rescues, with individuals being removed from rooftops and flooded homes.
• Devin Neeley, a San Juan county spokesperson, reported that rescue efforts continued throughout Friday, involving New Mexico guard boats, helicopters, and amphibious vehicles.
• Approximately 600 households were ordered to evacuate in Farmington, where the San Juan River was closed off.
• Gina Intoppa, a Farmington city spokesperson, stated that the city was mobilizing all available resources.
• Jared Polis, Colorado’s governor, declared a disaster emergency in 11 counties.
• The city of Hurricane in Utah declared a state of emergency after floodwater entered approximately 80 homes and 50 recreational vehicles.
• Kate Abbott, a National Weather Service meteorologist, noted that the region was saturated and unable to absorb further moisture.
• The flooding followed two months of heavy rain and occurred in areas naturally prone to flash flooding.

Original reporting

• CBS News: Flash floods, hail, even suspected tornadoes tear through Arizona, Nevada, Southern California
  2026-10-22T23:35:31+00:00
• Guardian: Severe flooding in US west triggers rooftop rescues and evacuation orders
  2026-10-23T00:00:00+00:00