Three people have died after being swept away by floodwaters on the Navajo Nation in north-western New Mexico, authorities said.
Tribal police received a report at about 12.30am on Wednesday of people being carried away near Newcomb, following a day of heavy rain and further downpours overnight.
Search teams found the bodies of two adults and a child. The circumstances of the drownings were under investigation.
Navajo Nation president Buu Nygren offered his condolences to the victims’ families and thanked first responders who searched through the night in difficult and dangerous conditions.
“There are no words that can ease the pain of losing a loved one so suddenly, and our hearts are especially heavy knowing that three lives were lost,” Mr Nygren said. “To the family, relatives, and loved ones who are grieving today, we offer our deepest condolences.”
Flood warnings issued across the Four Corners
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque warned that widespread thunderstorms were expected in the days ahead, with moisture levels forecast to be close to record levels for mid-September.
Excessive rainfall was predicted through Thursday across the Four Corners region, which includes New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado. An active monsoon pattern was expected to continue in New Mexico through Saturday, bringing the threat of heavy rain and flash flooding, while a flash flood watch was issued for much of central and northern Arizona.
The Navajo Police Department said several flooded roads were impassable and urged drivers not to attempt to travel through closures.
Mr Nygren also appealed to residents to take extreme care, warning: “Conditions can change quickly, and moving water can be dangerous-even in places we know well. No destination is worth risking your life or the lives of those traveling with you.”
The deaths follow flooding at the Grand Canyon several weeks ago, when three hikers were swept away and dozens of others were rescued after heavy rain sent torrents of water through Bright Angel Creek.
