Three people died in the Navajo Nation community of Newcomb, New Mexico, following monsoon rains that caused flooding across parts of the reservation.
The Navajo Police Department’s Shiprock District responded to a possible drowning after receiving reports that people had been swept away in a flooded area near Newcomb, located about 40 miles west of the Arizona state line.
Two adults and one juvenile were found dead and pronounced deceased at the scene, according to tribal police. The incident remains under investigation. Authorities have not identified the victims or confirmed whether they were from the Newcomb community.
“There are no words that can ease the pain of losing a loved one so suddenly, and our hearts are especially heavy knowing that three
lives were lost,” said Navajo President Buu Nygren. “To the family, relatives, and loved ones who are grieving today, we offer our deepest condolences. We pray that you are surrounded by strength, comfort, and the love of your family and community in the difficult days ahead.”
Communities across the Navajo Nation have experienced significant rainfall this week, resulting in flash flooding that has damaged roads. In the community of Dennehotso, about 30 miles east of Kayenta, Navajo Department of Transportation reported severe damage to multiple areas along Dennehotso Loop Road.
Flooding in Chinle has been extensive. Some residents along Highway 191 in Chinle, as well as those in other low-lying flood-prone areas, were encouraged to evacuate Tuesday evening, following recommendations from the Chinle Police Department. Schools were cancelled for Wednesday, Sept. 16.
The Chinle Chapter House is being evaluated as a potential emergency shelter because the facility in nearby Many Farms is currently unavailable for sheltering. Water levels in the affected area have begun to subside as Chinle Chapter personnel work on the earthen dam, according to Nygren.
Nygren is asking residents to continue exercising caution, avoid flooded roads and washes, and give first responders and emergency personnel room to safely conduct operations.
Persistent showers and thunderstorms are expected throughout Wednesday and into early Thursday, Sept. 16.
Arlyssa D. Becenti covers Indigenous affairs for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Send ideas and tips to arlyssa.becenti@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Bluesky at @abecenti.bsky.social.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 3 dead after flash floods on the Navajo Nation. What we know
