Officials Issue Strong Weather Warning After Near-Fatal Hiking Incident

A group of hikers just outside of Utah's Goblin Valley State Park were rescued after a dangerous flash flooding incident occurred on Wednesday.

Several hikers from a large group were swept away by flash flooding as they traveled across Little Wildhorse Canyon. The hikers were washed down the canyon in a "terrifying ordeal," according to a Facebook post from park officials.

Rescuers were "very lucky" to be able to reach the hikers and lead them to safety. Once out of the trail head, the affected hikers were treated for "minor injuries."

"Today some hikers got really lucky and we want to pass this along so that others can learn from the incident," the post from officials reads. "Several people were caught in the flooding and washed down canyon, a terrifying ordeal. Rescuers were able to reach them and hike them out to the trailhead where they were treated for minor injuries. Very lucky."

Officials noted that the weather forecast showed an 80% chance of rain, and strongly urged future hikers to take note of potentially dangerous conditions before venturing out onto the trails.

"These hikers, along with dozens of others who braved the canyons today, were truly lucky. We had an 80% chance of rain and heavy clouds," the post continued. "Please take this as a reminder- always check weather forecasts before hiking canyons, pay attention to the weather you see unfolding, and be ready to change your plans. We promise, it’s not worth the risk!"