Draper declares state of emergency after monsoon flooding damages roads

DRAPER, Utah — Neighborhoods all over northern Utah were hit with torrential rainstorms Thursday night, causing flash flooding and severe road damage.

Draper City Mayor Troy Walker declared a state of emergency due to this flooding.

Several roads have been closed due to damages from standing water and slide debris.

Draper City said the following road closures are in effect:

• Highland Dr at 1300 East
• Roundabout at Rambling Rd and Mike Weir Dr
• Bangerter Pkwy from 13800 South to Highland Dr

Walker said the city received over two inches of rain in an hour. He said East Highland Dr. turned into a lake, trapping several vehicles in the water. The fire department helped remove them.

Walker said the goal is to open the roads before people wake up, but they may not even know the full extent of the damage to roads and buildings.

Draper has set up an emergency center and is coordinating with Salt Lake County emergency services to address the flooding and road closures. 

Walker said the city wants to know about any street problems and to call the public works line if you have any information. They also want to know of any structural concerns to impacted homes.

“I think this is the most water I’ve ever seen,” he said. “Our people are working hard. They’re all tired too, they’ve been at it all night. Just be patient with us.”

(Draper City)

The aftermath of the flooding reveals dirt and debris-covered roads. Walker said they have snow plow drivers going out to push what they can off the road.

Related:

• Another round of severe weather rolled through Salt Lake County Thursday night
• How to stay safe on the road during monsoon season downpours
• What monsoon season means for Utah