Flash Floods

Death Valley National Park is located in an area where summer rains and flash flooding may occur. Every so often, there are events that are large enough to break weather records and cause significant damage to historic locations and park infrastructure.So while Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth, and one of the driest in North America, the natural forces that formed this landscape are still at play.
 
Muddy floodwater rushes over a paved road in a rocky desert and undercuts the downhill side.
Hurricane Hilary Flooding

On August 20, 2023, heavy rains from the remnants of Hurricane Hilary caused widespread flooding throughout the park.

Large pieces of asphalt in road with large flows of brown water coming from mountain landscape.
2022 Deluge

Heavy rains from monsoon storms closed all park roads.

Mud halfway up white building walls.
2015 Flood, Scotty's Castle

An unprecedented flood took out utilities and left mud and debris up to 10 feet deep. Years of repair work are still underway.

Last updated: November 29, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 579
Death Valley, CA 92328

Phone:

760 786-3200

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