The town of Bluff lifted the evacuation order issued Sunday evening at 5 a.m. Monday. Residents and business owners may return to their properties but are advised to use caution due to ongoing flooding.
Several properties on the east side of Bluff, south of Highway 191/Main Street, remain flooded. Officials cautioned the public to stay out of the San Juan River because elevated water levels and possible sewage contamination pose health risks. The town is currently assessing damage and plans to share recovery resources as they become available.
To support those affected by the floods, the Bluff Community Foundation Relief Fund is available for donations.
The American Red Cross of Utah opened an emergency shelter Sunday at San Juan High School, located at 311 N. Bronco Blvd. in Blanding, to assist people displaced by severe flooding in the Four Corners region. Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter, stated that while the organization cannot remove the uncertainty families face when fleeing their homes, they can provide a safe place and support.
Displaced individuals can still access the shelter at San Juan High School. For disaster relief services and to find open shelters, individuals can visit redcross.org/shelter or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
While the Bluff evacuation was lifted, evacuation orders have been issued for Montezuma Creek and Aneth as rising floodwaters threaten communities along the San Juan River. The National Weather Service has warned of potentially catastrophic flooding along the San Juan River between Four Corners and Mexican Hat. Heavy rainfall has pushed the river toward dangerous levels, resulting in flooded roads and closed bridges. Flood warnings remain in effect through Tuesday morning.
The American Red Cross recommends that residents follow all evacuation orders and leave immediately if instructed. They advise never driving through floodwater, staying away from flooded areas like rivers and drainage channels, keeping emergency supplies ready, and monitoring weather forecasts and local instructions.
