Areas near Aneth and Bluff ordered to evacuate due to flood dangers

ANETH, San Juan County — Authorities ordered residents in low-lying areas near Aneth and along Cottonwood Wash near Bluff to evacuate Sunday as heavy rain threatened to raise San Juan River water levels.

In a Facebook post Sunday night, the city said it ordered residents and businesses along Cottonwood Wash to evacuate. The Bluff Community Center was made available as a shelter.

The Navajo Nation ordered evacuations in low-lying areas near Aneth on Sunday afternoon, according to the social media post.

The town of Bluff was closely watching the weather as heavy rain north of Monticello flooded and closed parts of Highways 191 and 162 near Aneth, the town said.

"Flooding in Durango means more water is coming down the Animas River toward the San Juan," it said. "While we have no indication that the water level in the San Juan is anywhere near the levels we saw last Sunday, our 4 Corners neighbors are being impacted, and we'll remain on high alert for flooding that could affect the Bluff community."

The town of Bluff asked the public to remain cautious if driving and to take action if it becomes necessary to evacuate.

"Reminder to all, please have your 72-hour Go-bag ready," Bluff said. "The river levels are also being monitored; you will be notified if an evacuation comes in for your area."

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