Flash Flood in San Juan County, New Mexico

Heavy rain and extreme flash flooding impacted Chaco Canyon National Historical Park. Damage to roadways, including the north and south entrances to the park, was reported along with damages to the Gallo campground. One individual attempted to drive through the flooded road which prompted a successful water rescue. Due to the flooding and damages, the park was forced to close for several days. Damages are estimated.

With above normal atmospheric moisture values in place across northern and central New Mexico, it was another active monsoon day on July 21, 2021. The greatest storm coverage was across north central and west central New Mexico where numerous thunderstorms developed throughout the afternoon and evening hours. With the above normal moisture values and slow steering flow, heavy rain was common with these thunderstorms. A thunderstorm near Chaco Canyon produced significant flash flooding which damaged the park and forced its closure for several days.