Bluff told to shelter in place as Cottonwood Wash floods and Highway 163 closes

Bluff residents got an emergency alert just after 3 a.m. Monday telling them to shelter in place or move to higher ground after Cottonwood Wash began flooding, according to San Juan County and the Utah Division of Emergency Management. ^[1][3]

"If water approaches your home, move to an upper floor," the county said. "Stay away from Cottonwood Wash, the San Juan River, and flooded areas. Keep medications, supplies, and pets with you." An evacuation center is open at Blanding High School, 311 North 100 East in Blanding. ^[1][2][3]

Hours later, the county said the Comb Wash Bridge had washed out. Highway 163 is closed west of Bluff near its junction with Highway 191, and the county told drivers not to try to cross and to use other routes. ^[1][2][3]

San Juan County closed its government offices Monday because of the weather, flooding and public safety concerns, and said emergency response and essential public safety services would keep running. The San Juan School District closed all of its schools Monday. Montezuma Creek Schools will also be closed for in-person classes Tuesday, and students there can learn online. ^[1][2][3]

The National Weather Service had called the flooding "significant and historic" after 1.5 to 3 inches of rain fell on parts of San Juan County by Sunday afternoon. ^[3] It is the second flood to reach Bluff in a week, after the San Juan River forced an evacuation on Oct. 26. A disaster distress helpline is available at 1-800-985-5990. ^[2]