70 Ultramarathon Runners Evacuated After Heavy Rain in Utah
• Approximately 70 participants and volunteers in the Moab 240 ultramarathon were stranded due to heavy rain in Canyonlands National Park, Utah, on 10 October
• The San Juan County Sheriff's Office coordinated with race organisers to evacuate the affected individuals. The remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel contributed to the severe weather, which also caused flooding in other Western US states. Heated tents, hot food, and water were provided to those stranded at aid stations. The race, originally scheduled to end on 12 October, has been cancelled due to worsening conditions.
Impact & Risks
The heavy rain created hazardous conditions, stranding participants in remote areas of the race course. Flooding and difficult terrain posed significant risks to safety. The cancellation of the event has disrupted plans for participants who trained extensively for the ultramarathon. The remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel continue to fuel flood threats across the region.
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