SPRINGDALE, Utah (ABC4) — A flash flood warning was issued for Zion National Park, Springdale, and many other areas throughout Utah on Monday. Not only did the rains bring floods within Zion National Park, but the water also affected homes outside of Zion in the Springdale community as well.
A family in Springdale, who has lived in their home for generations, had floodwater rush into their basement destroying nearly everything.
Angelea Madsen-Glazier, the homeowner, told ABC4.com that the floodwater came over the street and down onto the property, breaking windows and flooding the basement.
She was about a mile away with her three young children when her dad called yelling, “We’re screwed, we’re screwed, the water is over the wall,” Angelea recalled.
“It just devastated,” she said.
When Angelea got home and pushed open the basement door, she was met with a river of water erupting from behind it.
“I was just shocked at how much water was coming out,” she said.
Angelea, who is the oldest of six children, grew up in the home, and has now watched her childhood wash away. She helped put the basement together as a child and played a major role in its design.
“We helped put everything together and now, to see it gone, is just devastating,” she said.
BeReady Utah says that Utah often experiences flooding, and anywhere it rains, it can flood! You can prepare for a flood by getting sandbags, getting a flood insurance policy, and preparing an evacuation plan.
If a flood starts in your area, be aware that flooding can happen within minutes and change quickly.
Officials say that if you live in a flood-prone area or are in a low-lying area, you should get to higher ground immediately. Additionally, you should avoid floodwaters. BeReady Utah says, “It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet.”
You should never attempt to drive into flooded roadways, as water can be deeper than it appears and it can hide hazards, such as sharp objects, washed-out road surfaces, electrical wires, and other chemicals.
Additionally, 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV, and 18 inches can carry away large vehicles.
After a flood, you should still be aware of possible hazards, including residual standing water and potential water contamination. You should also adhere to local road closures and avoid disaster areas, as it can hinder emergency response.