Flash Floods Close Chaco Canyon (Video)

Monday, July 26, 2021 at 11:59 AM

The north and south roads leading to the park are impassable, creating hazardous driving conditions for visitors attempting to reach the park. The park will re-open to visitors on July 27 at 12:00 p.m.

July 26, 2021

From Chaco Canyon National Historical Park

Effective immediately, Chaco Culture National Historical Park is closed for 24 hours because of severe and repeated flash floods on the afternoons of July 24 and 25. The north and south roads leading to the park are impassable, creating hazardous driving conditions for visitors attempting to reach the park. The park will re-open to visitors on July 27 at 12:00 p.m.

The Gallo Campground has also experienced flooding. Reservations in the campground will be canceled for July 26and 27. Camping in the Gallo Campground will begin again on Wednesday, July 28.

Road conditions into the park may still be treacherous even after the park has re-opened. Check local road conditions before driving to Chaco. Do not drive into standing water on roadways.

Flash flooding commonly occurs in the desert southwest. The arid, sparsely vegetated environment has little capacity to absorb rainfall, resulting in runoff moving rapidly across the landscape. Even small storms, or storms in nearby areas, can cause flash floods. Plan ahead and be prepared. Be aware that flash floods could occur anytime rainfall is forecast. According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms are possible in the afternoons and evenings for the next few days in the area.

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