**Severe Flooding Along the San Juan River Displaces Families and Threatens Historic Sites in Utah**
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In the wake of relentless rainfall during late October, the San Juan River in Utah has surged dramatically, causing substantial disruption for local communities. The river’s water levels rose from approximately seven feet to an alarming 26 feet, rendering some properties accessible only by boat and leading to the displacement of several families.
Among the communities hardest hit is Atcitty Camp, where resident Larena Benn expressed the deep sorrow echoing throughout her family, whose ties to the area run nearly a century long. “Everything’s a total loss for us,” Benn revealed, highlighting the emotional impact of the floods. As she recovers from the loss of her home and possessions, she remains hopeful about saving at least some remnants of her family’s history.
A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated for Benn’s family, which states: “Right now, my family is unable to go home because there is still water.” This initiative reflects a broader community effort to support those affected, with volunteers mobilising to provide assistance and resources.
Among those lending a helping hand is Krieg Benally, a guide with the Indigenous-run rafting company Ancient Wayves. Benally has utilised boats and rafts to facilitate access for people returning to their properties. “Everyone’s just still on full alert, but I can tell everyone’s tired,” he said, reflecting the weariness experienced by many community members in Bluff, where his own aunt’s home was similarly affected by the floods.
Compounding the challenges of recovery are bureaucratic and jurisdictional hurdles. Several of the most severely impacted properties are situated on Navajo Nation land, leading to confusion over which agencies are responsible for aid, road repairs, and flood protection measures. Residents have expressed frustration in addressing these complex challenges while trying to recover from the disaster.
Among the historical sites caught in the flooding is the reconstructed Bluff Fort, a crucial piece of local heritage. This site marks the establishment of a pioneer settlement dating back to 1880 when approximately 250 Mormons completed a six-month journey to southeastern Utah. Initially intending to settle further along the river, the settlers established Bluff City, constructing log cabins in a protective square known as Bluff Fort. This settlement became an integral part of early pioneer life, serving various community functions including a church, school, and store.
Connie Hunt, co-director at the Bluff Historic Fort, shared news of the widespread concern expressed by individuals across the United States following the flooding. “We have had people call us from every state in the United States saying, ‘I visited the fort, and I read and learned that you’ve been flooded. How is the fort? Have you saved the fort?’ ” her comments illustrate the national interest in the fort’s status and the local response to the crisis.
Despite the devastation, the spirit of the community remains resilient as they band together in support of one another. Volunteers have rallied to provide vital assistance, demonstrating solidarity in these daunting times. As efforts continue to address immediate needs, the road to recovery appears long and uncertain for many of those affected.
The scenes of destruction along the San Juan River serve as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community resilience. As locals navigate the recovery process, it is hoped that both individual and collective efforts will pave the way toward rebuilding their lives and preserving their history for future generations.
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