Gov. Cox declares state of emergency following flooding in San Juan and Washington counties

SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 6, 2026) - Gov. Spencer J. Cox signed Executive Order 2026-09 declaring a 30-day state of emergency in San Juan and Washington counties due to severe thunderstorms and flash flooding that damaged homes, businesses, roads, bridges and critical infrastructure.

The declaration allows the state to mobilize resources to support local response and recovery efforts and request federal and interstate assistance as needed.

"Repeated flooding has damaged homes, disrupted access to drinking water and cut off important travel routes," Gov. Cox said. "This declaration will help us support local efforts and get resources to affected Utahns. I'm grateful to the emergency responders and crews who are working to keep people safe."

Damaging floods occurred between Oct. 22 and Nov. 1, with some areas flooding multiple times. Local communities declared states of emergency and requested additional resources and support from state departments and agencies to respond to the flooding.

In San Juan County, floodwaters caused significant damage along U.S. Route 163 and state routes 162 and 262. Damage to the Comb Wash Bridge on U.S. Route 163 required an immediate closure after erosion left a gap between the roadway and the bridge. Flooding near Montezuma Creek and Bluff also damaged road shoulders and required localized closures and detours.

The storms damaged water lines, affecting access to drinking water in some areas, and compromised telecommunications and fiber infrastructure. The full extent of damage to roads, bridges, utilities and other public infrastructure cannot be determined until floodwaters fully recede.

The executive order takes effect immediately and remains in effect for 30 days unless extended by the Utah Legislature.

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