Manti-La Sal National Forest

Hydrologic Outlook issued October 29 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO

10:53 AM — October 30th, 3:00 PM

ESFGJT Low pressure begins to dig southward from the PACNW on Friday, tapping into a fetch of Pacific moisture that will evolve into an atmospheric river streaming into the Desert Southwest this weekend. Showers and thunderstorms develop on Friday and Saturday across the region. Lighter rainfall totals Friday and Saturday will reflect, initially lower, moisture. However, a few thunderstorms could produce impactful downpours on saturated soils left over from last weekend's historic rainfall. Deeper moisture develops Saturday night and early Sunday. This is expected to produce heavier and more widespread rainfall across southeast UT and southwest CO Sunday and Monday, mostly below 10000 feet. While rivers are forecast to remain below action stage, a growing concern lies in the potential for runoff around saturated hillsides in the region. This could produce rock, mud, and debris flows onto roadways, as well as flash flood prone burn scars, washes, slot canyons, and arroyos. Early estimates predict an area of 1 to 2 inches of new rainfall for portions of southeast UT and southwest CO. This is a preliminary forecast that hinges on slight shifts in a strong moisture plume impacting the region. It also attempts to capture the most statistically likely outcome, despite stronger and weaker outlier predictions. Outdoor enthusiasts, motorists, and residents of recent flood impacted areas are encouraged to remain abreast of the developing forecast in the coming days.

Hydrologic Outlook issued October 28 at 2:42PM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO

October 28th, 2:42 PM — 3:00 PM

ESFGJT Low pressure begins to dig southward from the PACNW on Friday, tapping into a fetch of Pacific moisture that will evolve into an atmospheric river streaming into the Desert Southwest this weekend. Showers and thunderstorms develop on Friday and Saturday across the region. Lighter rainfall totals Friday and Saturday will reflect, initially lower, moisture. However, a few thunderstorms could produce impactful downpours on saturated soils left over from last weekend's historic rainfall. Deeper moisture develops Saturday night and early Sunday. This is expected to produce heavier and more widespread rainfall across southeast UT and southwest CO Sunday and Monday, mostly below 10000 feet. While rivers are forecast to remain below action stage, a growing concern lies in the potential for runoff around saturated hillsides in the region. This could produce rock, mud, and debris flows onto roadways, as well as flash flood prone burn scars, washes, slot canyons, and arroyos. Early estimates predict an area of 1 to 2 inches of new rainfall for portions of southeast UT and southwest CO. This is a preliminary forecast that hinges on slight shifts in a strong moisture plume impacting the region. It also attempts to capture the most statistically likely outcome, despite stronger and weaker outlier predictions. Outdoor enthusiasts, motorists, and residents of recent flood impacted areas are encouraged to remain abreast of the developing forecast in the coming days.

Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.

Overview

Manti-La Sal National Forest is a 1,413,111-acre forest stretching from central Utah to southeastern Utah and into Colorado, divided into three primary land areas: the Manti Division, the La Sal Division at Moab, and the La Sal Division at Monticello. The forest is currently OPEN with no fire restrictions as of September 13, 2025 (Stage One restrictions were lifted due to favorable conditions). Recent significant activity includes the Deer Creek Fire closure on the Moab Ranger District, which was rescinded on August 22, 2025, and that area is now reopened. Current notices include La Sal Mountain Loop Road construction work ongoing, and Lake Fork Canyon has had road work and flooding concerns requiring users to report any damage. Fire danger is currently LOW across all ranger districts (Sanpete, Ferron/Price, Moab, and Monticello). Standard 14-day limit applies to both developed and undeveloped campsites. Road and trail accessibility varies by elevation and weather, so checking conditions with ranger district offices before visiting is advised, especially during seasonal transitions. Recent press releases indicate Christmas tree and firewood permits are available online through Recreation.gov.

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