Overnight mudslide forces road closure in Provo

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PROVO — A mudslide forced authorities to close parts of Nevada Avenue and Slate Canyon Drive in Provo on Thursday morning.

The city of Provo released a statement saying intense rain caused the mudslide in the burn scar of the Buckley Draw Fire late Wednesday night. The city released this map of affected areas:

Provo said debris channels protected homes in the area, but “a significant amount of mud reached the church at the intersection of Nevada Avenue and Slate Canyon Drive,” located at the center of the map above. Debris was reportedly found as far west as State Street.

“While crews are continuing their work, we’re asking for the public to avoid the Slate Canyon and Nevada Avenue area and follow the posted detour routes,” Provo said.

The Provo Police Department said a detour was available at 1320 South and Slate Canyon Drive. The nearby Spring Creek Elementary could be accessed by California Avenue.

Mudslide cleanup in progress at Slate canyon and Nevada Ave – Detour in place. Spring Creek Elementary can be accessed via California Avenue. pic.twitter.com/uxBYqBI8Q8

— Provo Police (@ProvoPolice) August 28, 2025

A driver recorded the mudslide as it blocked traffic and caused road damage:

(Jaxon Clark)

Jaxon Clark and his father were driving down Nevada Avenue in Provo Wednesday night around 11PM when a flood of mud rushed over concrete barriers.  

“All of a sudden this big mudslide came down and swooped the barrier across the street.  I was kinda freaked out,” Jaxon Clark said.  “It was rushing, and I knew someone could get hurt.  My dad and I turned into the church parking lot.  Very soon, we realized that was a bad idea.  The mud was piling up fast.”

Jaxon captured video of the mudslide pouring over the road, while his father drove.  

“I was shocked how hard it was raining and with the mud coming down; it moved that concrete,” Clark said

Provo City said debris flow channels were able to protect homes in the area; however, a significant amount of mud reached the church at the intersection of Nevada Avenue and Slate Canyon Drive. 

It was not clear to what extent, if at all, the church was damaged.

Provo said on Facebook that the incident has required all hands on deck. Since Wednesday night, they have hauled away 960 truck loads of debris.

Public works, parks, and airport crews have also brought in equipment, and over 200 people have volunteered to help clear the mud. 

Provo said that so far six loaders, three skidsteers, one grader, two mini excavators, six vac trucks, even dump trucks, five plows and three sweepers have been used. 

Provo City Public Works Director Gordon Haight said roads will be closed at least until Saturday.

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Contributing: Diana Jones and Brittany Tait

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