Driver rescued from partially submerged car after rains trigger flooding in Southern Utah

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Rescuers saved a woman and her dog after her car was partially submerged by floodwaters in Southern Utah.

Officials with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said a woman drove to Warner Valley in a Suburu and later called authorities saying the water was getting deeper.

Washington City Fire Department crews were called to the scene and rescued both the driver and the dog. Fire officials said no injuries were reported.

Officials reminded community members to check weather alerts before driving and to turn around when facing flooded roads. They said to “never underestimate flowing water.”

MORE | Utah Flooding

The heavy rains were remnants of Tropical Storm Priscilla as it moved north across Utah. While the majority of the morning rain was in the southern parts of the state, rain is anticipated across the Wasatch Front in the evening as a strong cold front moves through central and northern Utah.

On Saturday morning, sheriff’s office officials warned residents to be careful on roads near rivers and streams.

“The flow will be strong after the heavy rains and flooding can come suddenly, and violently,” officials said. “Do not try to cross flooded roads and slow down in case there is debris washed onto roads from the rains.”

Sgt. Lucas Alfred said there is a lot of cleanup needed across the county, adding that road crews worked overnight to clean up the roads. He said in New Harmony, street signs were nearly tipped over, and an intersection was filled with mud.

Zion National Park experienced mud and rock slides, with crews still working on removing debris.

Flash flooding is possible in Utah’s national parks, and weather forecasters advise staying away from burn scars, normally dry washes, and slot canyons.

Mika Miyashima contributed to this reporting.

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