Camping flash flood emergency¶

Flash floods are sudden, violent torrents of water and debris that sweep through dry creek beds, narrow canyons, and low-lying campsites within minutes after heavy rain, even if the storm occurred miles upstream.

Do this now¶

Climb to high ground immediately: If you hear a sudden roaring sound or see water rising, leave your tent, gear, and supplies behind and climb up the nearest hillside or canyon wall immediately.
Do not attempt to save equipment: Tents, stoves, and backpacks can be replaced. Seconds spent gathering gear in a flash flood zone can cost your life.
Never walk or wade into moving floodwater: Water flowing at just 15 cm (6 inches) deep can knock an adult off their feet.
Never drive through flooded roads or crossings: Most vehicles float in 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 feet) of water. If your car is stalled in rising water, abandon it and climb to higher ground.

Early warning signs of a flash flood¶

Sudden change in water clarity or speed: Stream water suddenly turns muddy, brown, or carries floating foam, leaves, and large debris.
Distant roaring sound: A deep rumble resembling a freight train or jet engine approaching from up-canyon.
Rumbling in canyon walls: Vibrations in the ground or rock walls as boulders and heavy debris are pushed downstream.
Dark clouds over upstream mountains: Heavy thunderstorms occurring miles away can send wall-of-water flash floods down dry washes under clear blue skies at your campsite.

Safe campsite selection rules¶

Camp at least 60 meters (200 feet) from water: Set up camp well above historical flood lines and away from dry washes or slot canyon floors.
Avoid pitching tents under overhanging canyon walls: High water undercut canyon shelves, causing rockfalls and mudslides during heavy rain.
Keep a headlamp and boots inside your tent at night: Have emergency footwear and illumination within arm's reach while sleeping.