The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Western Garfield County near the Utah state line until 4:15 p.m. Monday, according to a Garfield County news release. 

At 1:18 p.m., Colorado Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area, with 1-1.5 inches of fallen rain so far, according to the release. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.3 to 0.6 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. 

The flash flooding will have a higher impact on small creeks, streams, highways and poor-drainage or low-lying areas. The release states that “some locations that will experience flash flooding include mainly rural areas of Western Garfield County,” including Colorado Highway 139, which runs from Loma to Rangely, between mile markers 27 and 31.  

If you encounter flooded roads:  

• Turn around, as most flood deaths occur in vehicles. 
• Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.  
• Report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request they pass this information to the National Weather Service when you can do so safely.  

Colorado 139 is prone to rockslides and mudslides in heavy rain. Stay alert for rocks and debris on roads and find an alternate route.