Cedar City Flooding Update from Mayor Maile Wilson Edwards
July 29, 2021
On Monday July 26, 2021, Cedar City experienced a large rain event that led to me declaring a State of Emergency based on the significant flooding that occurred. Based on the preliminary data the City have received, the worst hit area of town had a maximum rain depth recorded that was equivalent to a 600-year storm.
The amount of rain in such a short period of time overwhelmed flood control structures and resulted in localized flooding in areas of our City. The flooding impacted public infrastructure, private residential homes and apartments, businesses, and churches. We continue to have the roadway of Cody Drive closed for the time being as repairs from the flood are occurring.
Since Monday, the City has been in constant communication with both Iron County and Southern Utah University to coordinate efforts for our community. We also have been in communication with the Governor, Lt Governor, State Commissioner of Public Safety and members of our Congressional delegation.
Beginning Monday night, City crews have worked to assess damage, clear debris out of roadways, pump water out of buildings, assess detention and retention basins, clean storm drains, and assist our residents in need. The City has and will continue these efforts in the days ahead, especially where additional rain is forecasted throughout the weekend.
I have personally been working with multiple cities throughout the state to get additional resources into our community ranging from pumps to clear out flood water to additional sandbags.
For our residents please be aware of the upcoming rain that is forecasted and prepare your homes and businesses. There are resources available both to prepare for the forecasted rain and for those that have already been impacted.
Resources
- There will be large roll off dumpsters located at the Cross Hollow arena for people to deposit items ruined by the flooding. The Cross Hollow Area is located at 11 N. Cross Hollow Road
- The Iron County land fill will waive fees for flood damaged items for at least the next week
- The American Red Cross has set up an emergency shelter located in the church building at 61 North 900 West. This location is stocked with items for anyone who is in need including cleaning supplies, food, water, bedding, personal hygiene, shoes, etc. They are open from 8 AM to 8 PM.
- Sandbags
- Cedar City and Iron County have sandbags available at their respective public works offices free to the public. Cedar City can still use assistance filling sandbags.
- The Cedar City Public Works yard is located at 716 N Airport Road
- The Iron County Road Department is located at 1104 North Bulldog Road
- Cedar City residents, if you were affected by storms, please report any damage you received. You can report this by going to the city website at www.cedarcity.org and click on the banner at the top of the page to submit your information. This information will assist us in knowing areas where we need to focus and do additional assessments on infrastructure.
Volunteer Opportunities
In the best tradition of Cedar City, our neighbors helped each other. Many neighbors helped those that experienced significant damage. There were also dozens of citizens helping to fill sandbags, and provide cleanup to those that were hardest hit by the flooding. Many local private business’ rose to the occasion to lend their resources. As our community always does, people want to know ways that they can be of assistance. Below is a list of volunteer opportunities
- Sandbags
- We have received a substantial number of sandbags that need to be filled at the Cedar City Public Works yard is located at 716 N Airport Road. If you come fill sandbags and can bring a shovel and gloves that is appreciated but not necessary.
- Items Needed at the Red Cross Shelter (location: 61 North 900 West)
- As we receive updates on items that are in need at the Red Cross Shelter we will put an updated list out
- Other
- The biggest need we continue to hear from those impacted is the need for monetary resources to replace larger items and to clean, repair, and fix their homes/apartments. There are lots of opportunities to donate directly to families posted around online. Donate through those avenues as you feel comfortable.
- If you would like to help SUU students, Southern Utah University has launched a campaign to directly support those students who have been impacted by the floods. Please visit suu.edu/tbirdstrong to donate. Any contribution is greatly appreciated.
- Overall, please continue to check on your neighbors and assist those around you in need.
Individual Preparation for Upcoming Storms
- If there is substantial flooding that occurs in an area, please avoid that location. Local law enforcement agencies will provide traffic control if necessary.
- If you need sandbags for your individual home or business, please stop by either the Cedar City or Iron County public works facilities and take what you need. They are FREE.
- Also, for your own purposes please remember to take pictures and document the damage. It’s not something you think about in the heat of the moment but is important.
City Preparation for Upcoming Storms
As we look towards the remainder of this week and the forecasted storms, know that we continue to be actively engaged in both preparation and mitigation efforts. Our Cedar City crews in conjunction with other volunteers, and the various Iron County crews, will continue cleaning roads and storm drains. The City State of Emergency declaration will remain in effect through the remainder of the weekend.
We will continue updating information as it becomes available both on the City website and through social media channels. The City will remain in regular communication with the County, SUU and the State. We will also utilize the Iron County Citizen Alert System if necessary for immediate communication. If you have not signed up for these alerts you can sign up at the following link https://www.ironcounty.net/government/departments/emergency-management/citizen-alert
Additionally, if it becomes necessary, I will once again set up a command post with the County, SUU and other agency partners to immediately mobilize resources to the impacted areas.