Rare Tornado Destroys Homes Near Montezuma Creek Utah, Impacts Navajo Nation

A rare tornado touched down near Montezuma Creek within the Navajo Nation in San Juan County, Utah, destroying at least three homes and damaging others, though no injuries were reported. The Navajo Police Department confirmed the tornado was on the ground for several minutes and coordinated recovery efforts with local agencies, providing shelter at Montezuma Creek Elementary School for affected families. The National Weather Service issued tornado warnings and noted that Utah tornadoes are typically small and short-lived, with this event being unusual given the state's generally dry climate. The storm system also brought heavy rainfall, leading to flash flooding in neighboring Colorado. Authorities advised residents to stay out of damaged areas, monitor weather updates, and check on family and friends. Support assistance from the American Red Cross was made available to impacted families as recovery efforts continue.