An Update from the Communications Office of the Episcopal Church in Navajoland
November 2, 2026
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland (ECN) continues to hold in prayer all those affected by the historic and ongoing flooding across the Navajo Nation, southeastern Utah, and northwestern New Mexico.
As families and communities work to assess the damage from the late October flooding, another round of severe storms on November 1 and 2 is bringing additional flooding, further complicating an already difficult situation.
Across the Navajo Nation, heavy rainfall has caused road washouts, hazardous travel conditions, and disruptions to community access. Reports from Nazlini, Indian Wells, Mexican Springs, Red Mesa, Sweetwater, Dilkon, Pinon, and other communities describe damaged roads and dangerous crossings. Several chapter houses are providing emergency shelter and assistance to affected residents.
In northwestern New Mexico, flooding remains an active emergency. The Animas River has breached its banks in parts of Farmington, prompting additional evacuations near Broadway Avenue and Murray Drive. Rising waters along the Animas, San Juan, and La Plata rivers are causing road closures, disruptions to electrical service, and ongoing threats to homes and neighborhoods.
In southeastern Utah, Bluff is experiencing the aftermath of another round of flooding and evacuations. Nearby Navajo communities, including Montezuma Creek and Aneth, are facing serious transportation challenges as floodwaters and damaged roads restrict access to surrounding areas.
For many families, this is not simply a matter of recovering from one storm. Some have already experienced damage to their homes and belongings, while others face renewed displacement, unsafe travel conditions, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Concerns about contaminated floodwater, damaged infrastructure, and the approaching winter months add to the challenges.
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland recognizes that emergency response and recovery are happening simultaneously across our communities.
ECN’s Flood Response and Recovery Efforts
ECN clergy, regional leadership, and the Standing Committee continue to assess the needs of affected communities and coordinate a response. These conversations focus on immediate household assistance, safe recovery, and the challenges families face as colder weather approaches.
ECN is working closely with Episcopal Relief & Development to coordinate emergency assistance for households and communities affected by the flooding. Our efforts focus on responding to immediate needs while recognizing that recovery will take time, particularly for families experiencing repeated flooding and displacement.
ECN is establishing a coordinated process to identify needs, provide assistance, and document support for affected households. Our clergy and regional leadership continue communicating with communities and local partners as conditions change and additional needs emerge.
Our commitment to caring for our neighbors extends beyond the walls of our churches. We recognize our relationships and responsibilities to one another and the importance of supporting those who are most vulnerable during times of hardship. Assistance is intended to respond to community needs without requiring an existing relationship with the church.
We are deeply grateful for the first responders, emergency personnel, chapter officials, community volunteers, grassroots organizations, and neighbors who continue working tirelessly to protect lives and provide assistance.
For Those Wishing to Help
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland continues to receive inquiries from individuals, congregations, and ministry partners asking how they can assist families affected by the flooding.
At this time, monetary contributions provide the greatest flexibility to respond to immediate and changing needs. Financial gifts can help support essential household assistance, including food, drinking water, infant formula, diapers, hygiene supplies, winter clothing, protective equipment, and other necessities identified by our communities.
We also recognize that many individuals and congregations prefer to contribute specific supplies. ECN is considering ways to coordinate donations of identified items so contributions can be directed toward actual community needs. Additional information will be shared as arrangements are developed.
Those wishing to make a financial contribution may send a check payable to:
Episcopal Church in Navajoland
P.O. Box 720
Farmington, NM 87499
Please write “Flood Relief Fund” in the memo line so your contribution can be designated for disaster relief.
We are grateful for the generosity, prayers, and concern being extended to our communities. As needs continue to emerge, especially following this second round of flooding, we will provide additional updates on our response and ways to assist.
Emergency Information and Community Resources
Flood conditions, evacuation orders, road closures, and shelter availability continue to change. Residents are encouraged to follow official announcements and verify current conditions before traveling.
Navajo Nation
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Navajo Department of Emergency Management: https://www.facebook.com/nndem2020
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Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency: https://navajoepa.org/
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Navajo Nation Emergency Operations Center Call Center: (505) 422-6597
Northwestern New Mexico
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San Juan County: https://www.sjcounty.net/
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New Mexico Road Conditions: https://www.nmroads.com/
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National Weather Service Albuquerque: https://www.weather.gov/abq
Southeastern Utah
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Utah Road Conditions: https://udottraffic.utah.gov/
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Bluff Community Foundation: https://bluffcommunityfoundation.org/relief
For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. Never attempt to cross flooded roadways, washes, or bridges.
A Prayer for Our Communities
Creator God,
We come before you with heavy hearts for our relatives, neighbors, and communities affected by the flooding across Navajoland and the surrounding regions.
We pray for the families who have lost their homes, their belongings, and their sense of security. Be with those who have been displaced, those who are uncertain of what tomorrow will bring, and those who are weary from facing one hardship after another.
Watch over our elders, our children, and all who are especially vulnerable during this time. Protect those who continue to face rising waters, damaged roads, and unsafe conditions.
We give thanks for the first responders, volunteers, clergy, community leaders, and neighbors who continue to care for one another. Grant them strength, wisdom, and safety in the work before them.
As our communities face the continuing emergency and the long journey toward recovery, guide us to respond with compassion, generosity, and patience. Remind us of the relationships that connect us and our responsibility to care for one another.
May those who are afraid find comfort, those who are exhausted find rest, and those who have lost so much find hope in the days ahead.
In Christ’s name we pray.
Amen.
Ahéhee’ for your continued prayers, compassion, and support.
Issued by the Communications Office
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland
*This update reflects information available as of November 2, 2026. Emergency conditions, road closures, and evacuation instructions may change. Please follow official emergency management agencies for the latest information.