SR-153 through Beaver Canyon is indefinitely closed after flooding severely damaged the roadway. Photo: Utah Department of Transportation

CENTRAL UTAH — Flooding and debris flows are causing significant road impacts across central Utah as crews respond to washed-out highways, mudslides, and changing conditions.

The Utah Department of Transportation said Tuesday that crews are working to address flooding impacts, including severe damage to State Route 153 through Beaver Canyon, which is now closed indefinitely after sections of the road were washed away.

Travelers heading through central and southern Utah should expect possible delays and route changes as additional storms are expected and conditions could shift quickly.

SR-153 through Beaver Canyon closed indefinitely

One of the hardest-hit routes is State Route 153 through Beaver Canyon.

UDOT said flooding and debris flows severely damaged multiple sections of the highway, with some areas completely washed away. The most significant damage is between mileposts 7.5 and 10.5, where debris blocked the highway and portions of the roadway were destroyed. Near milepost 14, floodwaters undercut the highway and washed away approximately half of the road.

The road connects Beaver with the Eagle Point Resort area and continues toward U.S. 89. UDOT said motorists and property owners should not attempt to enter the closed area from either direction while crews assess the damage.

I-15 near Beaver reopens after mudslide closure

Interstate 15 was temporarily closed in both directions near Beaver on Sunday after flooding and a mudslide impacted the roadway between mileposts 109 and 112.

UDOT announced Sunday night that I-15 had reopened, but drivers were advised to use caution while traveling through the area. Earlier closures required motorists to use lengthy detours, with alternate routes adding up to 2.5 hours of travel time.

The flooding occurred as a flash flood emergency was issued for areas around Beaver, including concerns related to runoff from the Cottonwood Fire burn scar.

Travelers urged to use caution

UDOT is reminding drivers to avoid traveling through closed areas, follow posted signs and directions from emergency personnel, and expect conditions to change quickly with additional rain in the forecast.

“Be patient,” UDOT said in a Tuesday update. “If a road is closed or if there is a slowdown, it is for a reason.”

The flooding has been especially challenging in areas affected by previous wildfires, where burned landscapes can increase the risk of flash flooding and debris flows because water moves more quickly across the terrain. UDOT said the Cottonwood Fire burn scar has contributed to the increased risk around Beaver Canyon.

For the latest road conditions, travelers can check UDOT Traffic updates before heading out.