‘100-year storm’: Tooele County hit with heavy flooding, NWS issues Flash Flood Warning

TOOELE, Utah (ABC4) — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flash Flood Warning in Tooele County as thunderstorms hit northern Utah on Saturday. Tooele County residents are currently experiencing heavy flooding.

“This storm has the potential characteristics of a 100-year storm, bringing heavy rainfall,” Tooele County said in a statement Saturday morning. “Emergency response crews from Tooele County, Tooele City, and the Stansbury Park Service Agency are actively responding to multiple reports of flooding and storm-related impacts.”

“Those who are experiencing flooding and need sandbags can fill bags at the Salt Shed that is located at the Tooele City Public Works Campus 1015 S. Colman or approximately 1000 South Main Street (SR 36),” Tooele City posted on Facebook. “Please only take what is necessary. If active flooding begins and you are in danger please call 911.”

The NWS issued a Flash Flood Warning Saturday morning for the Jacob City Burn Scar and eastern Tooele County. The warning is in effect until noon.

“At local law enforcement reported thunderstorms producing heavy rain over the Jacob City Burn Scar. Between 1.5 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is already occurring,” the NWS stated. “Excessive rainfall over the Jacob City burn scar will result in debris flow moving through Soldier Canyon, impacting the county road and water treatment plant. Impacts may be seen downstream along Soldier Creek to SR-36 and the UPR rail line near mile marker 47.
The debris flow can consist of rock, mud, vegetation and other loose materials.”

Flash flooding and debris flows are expected to impact the county road near the water treatment plant in Soldier Canyon and potentially point downstream along Soldier Creek to SR-36.

Flash flooding of areas in and around the Jacob City Burn Scar can be life threatening, officials said. Stockton, Loafer Canyon, and Soldier Canyon will reportedly experience flash flooding.

“This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks…streams…and ditches in the Jacob City Burn Scar. Severe debris flows can also be
anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in places. If you encounter flood waters…climb to safety,” the NWS said.

Tooele City Fire has stated that they are officially out of sandbags.

Retention ponds in several areas have reached capacity, Tooele County officials said. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and remain alert to changing conditions.

Residents are asked to self-report flooding or other storm concerns here.