Three Killed as Floodwaters Sweep Through Navajo Nation

Three people died after being carried away by floodwaters early Wednesday on the Navajo Nation in northwestern New Mexico, tribal authorities said.

Police received a report around 12:30 a.m. about people being washed away near the community of Newcomb. The call came after a day of heavy rain that left roads and low-lying areas covered in standing water, with more rain falling through the night.

Search crews found the bodies of two adults and a child. Authorities released few other details, saying only that the drownings remained under investigation.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed condolences and thanked first responders who searched through the night in difficult and dangerous conditions.

"To the family, relatives, and loved ones who are grieving today, we offer our deepest condolences," Nygren said in a social media post. "We pray that you are surrounded by strength, comfort, and the love of your family and community in the difficult days ahead."

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque issued a special briefing on Tuesday warning that numerous and widespread thunderstorms were expected over the coming days. It repeated the warnings Wednesday, noting that moisture levels were expected to be near record highs for mid-September.

Excessive rainfall was forecast through Thursday across the Four Corners region, which takes in New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado. Flash flood warnings were in effect for parts of northwestern New Mexico, while forecasters issued a flash flood watch for much of central and northern Arizona.

Nygren urged residents to take extreme care.

"Conditions can change quickly, and moving water can be dangerous—even in places we know well," he said. "No destination is worth risking your life or the lives of those traveling with you."

The deaths come weeks after flooding at the Grand Canyon, where three hikers were swept away and dozens more were rescued after heavy rain sent torrents through Bright Angel Creek.