The Moab 240 in Utah has been cancelled after Tropical Storm Rachel caused flash floods, falling trees, and torrential rain. Organisers were forced to pull the plug 55 hours into the race, leaving around 70 runners and volunteers stranded.
The storm was linked to remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel, which brought heavy rain to much of the Southwest United States. Race Organisers Destination Trail were forced to cancel the race after forecasters predicted worsening conditions.
The Moab 240 is a 241-mile race through Utah desert starting and finishing in Moab, Utah. Participants face over 200 miles of rugged terrain, desert canyons, slickrock, and mountain ranges.
Trouble began on Saturday 10th October when dangerous weather hit parts of the course, causing Cottonwood Creek to become too dangerous to cross. Flash floods blocked the route, with runners becoming unable to continue safely.
In videos posted to social media, runners were seen leaping across cascading rivers, making many viewers nervous for their safety. When preparing for the race, runners expected mild, pleasant autumnal weather with cool nights; instead, this year they battled heavy rain and freezing temperatures.
@glazeruns Moab 240 This was one of the sketches things I’ve done. Four of us had to cross this multiple times and it took out the trail. Or I should say, that was the trail. Smile, or you’re doing it wrong #moab240 #runtok ♬ original sound – Andy Glaze
Leading runner Aaron Kubala described the night heading into La Sals as “pure chaos” with falling trees, his back locking up and potential hypothermia. Viral reflections captured the abrupt end, with one widely shared sentiment noting, “I stared into the abyss for 144 miles. And it blinked first.”
The combination of moisture and cold air from the low-pressure system also forecast high-elevation snow.
Powerful winds threatened to blow away aid station structures, while falling trees increased the danger for both participants and volunteers.
@ashkickn1Trees falling all around us . The rain was just a tease
Emergency responders were notified Saturday and people were evacuated from the route by Sunday morning. Some were picked up by all-terrain vehicles assisted by San Juan County sheriff deputies and other local responders. All runners and volunteers were accounted for and reports indicated no serious injuries.
By Sunday afternoon, the lead runners were told of the race’s cancellation:
“We made the difficult decision to cancel the Moab 240 because of dangerous weather on course. We’re so sorry. We know how much this race means to everyone who trained for it, crewed for it, and volunteered to make it happen. But safety will always come first, and we appreciate everyone for their patience and understanding.”
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