Flash Floods

Flash floods occur when intense, sudden rainfall transforms a dry wash into a raging, muddy torrent. Because sun-baked desert soil cannot quickly absorb large amounts of water, runoff cascades instantly into steep canyons and arroyos, sometimes arriving as a towering wall of water.

Prevention and Safety Strategies

The best way to survive a flash flood is to never put yourself in harm’s way.

Plan Before You Go

• Check the Forecast: Monitor official updates from the National Weather Service or local agencies, such as those provided by the Bureau of Land Management for your specific area.
• Avoid Slot Canyons: If there is any chance of thunderstorms in the region, avoid deep, narrow canyons entirely.
• Scout Your Camp: Never pitch a tent or park a vehicle in a dry wash, arroyo, or low-lying drainage.

What to Do If You Are Caught

• Seek Higher Ground Immediately: If you spot signs of flooding, act rapidly and move to the highest accessible elevation. Do not waste time trying to gather gear.
• Never Try to Outrun It: Do not attempt to hike out of a wash when a flood is approaching. Get out of the channel completely.
• Never Cross Floodwaters: Avoid crossing any flooded trail or ravine, either on foot or in a vehicle. Only 6 inches of moving water can sweep an adult off their feet, and 12 inches can float most cars.
• Abandon Your Vehicle: If your car stalls in a flooded area, leave it immediately and climb to higher ground. Vehicles are quickly swept away by rapid currents.
• Wait It Out: Desert flash floods are typically brief and subside within a few hours. Be patient and wait for the water to completely recede before attempting to move on.

(Source: Bureau of Land Management, Flash Floods.)

The information provided on this CVHC page is for general informational and educational purposes only.