A tragedy that unfolded in Utah’s Wayne County on July 17 highlights the dangerous risk that flash flooding can pose, leaving five family members dead.

According to a report from Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, the five individuals – later identified as Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their sons Reid, Thayne, and Gage – arrived at Sunglow Campground around 11:30 a.m. last Friday for a day of hiking and canyoneering. This campground is located about 165 miles south of Salt Lake City and near Crescent, Sunglow, and Red canyons. Per the sheriff’s office, evidence points to the family later falling victim to flash flooding that occurred due to heavy rains.

Later that day, at about 5 p.m., the sheriff’s office responded to the campground on the report of a found body, with the body of a young male confirmed once law enforcement was at the scene. A search for the family was activated, and the bodies of two deceased males were later found in the same flooding wash. The following day, the bodies of two other deceased individuals were found.

Following the tragedy, a GoFundMe was set up for the family’s surviving daughter, Lydia, set to assist in providing resources for her immediate needs, funeral and memorial expenses, housing, counseling, daily living costs, education, and other expenses. It has since raised more than $200,000.

This horrific situation exemplifies how dangerous flash flooding can be. It’s important for those in outdoor recreation areas to remember that rain falling elsewhere can lead to flooding in an area where storms are not present. While canyons can be one place where flash flooding can occur, another area that shouldn’t be overlooked is the area around a wildfire’s burn scar – something that has proven problematic in Colorado in recent weeks and years. When a wildfire moves through an area, it chars the land and creates a sort of crust that’s difficult for rain to penetrate. As a result of this surface and the lack of foliage, rain can rush through burn scars rapidly.

When in any area where flood risk may be a concern, it’s important to constantly be planning ahead with an escape route to higher ground. Be highly aware of the forecast, not just for the area you’re in, but in other nearby areas that could send water rushing your way. Another key factor to be aware of is how difficult it can be to spot flooding at night, which can be particularly dangerous for campers. Set up campsites away from moving water and places where flooding may be a risk, also planning ahead with an escape to higher ground if needed. Keep sources of light, including a headlamp and flashlight, close while you sleep to use in the event of an emergency.

Sincere condolences go out to those impacted by these deaths.

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