The Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Management issued a severe weather warning on Monday through the Navajo Nation’s text message alert, regarding anticipated heavy rainfall that is expected to begin on Wednesday.
“Our administration continues to offer support to several communities that are still recovering from monsoon rainfall in July," Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said. "The Navajo Division of Transportation’s work crews also continue to work on repairs to roads that were washed out in July.
"The weather forecast shows heavy rainfall this week beginning on Wednesday morning in the western portion of the Navajo Nation and moving east throughout the day," Nez continued. "Please be prepared, make sure your family and elders have essential items such as food, water, and fire wood.
"Flash flooding can carry away people and vehicles if people enter flooded areas, so please be very cautious and do not enter flooded areas on foot or by vehicle. As we move forward into the fall and winter seasons, we need our people to be prepared for more severe weather,” Nez concluded.
If chapters need assistance with response efforts, please send an email to the Navajo Nation Division of Community Development at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Community Health Representatives, under the Navajo Department of Health, are also providing support and assistance for elderly residents and those with health conditions. The Navajo Division of Transportation will work as quickly as possible to clear roadways and repair roads in the event of more road washouts this week.
“September is National Preparedness Month, as we turn our attention to the expected rainfall this week we must be ‘Navajo Ready,’ by setting aside time to create or review your own emergency preparedness plan and to consider registering as a disaster response volunteer," Vice Present Myron Lizer said. "Don’t let the unpleasant thought of an emergency deter you from making a plan to protect your family and yourself, and to serve others in need.
Being prepared may not prevent a disaster, but it will give you confidence to meet the challenge. We have to work together and provide as much support as possible,” Lizer concluded.
The Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President, Navajo Division of Transportation, and Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Management will continue coordinating with county officials, chapter officials, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and state emergency officials to provide additional resources and updates.
On Sept. 1 thunderstorms will move from west to east early in the morning through the afternoon. A flash flood watch (meaning ingredients are coming together) is in effect from 3 am on Sept. 1 through 6 am on Sept 2. Some of the heaviest thunderstorms can produce rainfall rates between one and two inches per hour. Lingering showers and thunderstorms will be possible after the heaviest rain passes.
