Southern Colorado Towns Recover from Flooding Amid Forecasted Rain
Communities in Southern Colorado are working to recover from severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall. Over a span of two and a half days, parts of the region experienced more than six inches of rain. As rainfall is forecasted to continue, emergency services are on high alert.
Impact of the Flooding
Significant rainfall totals were recorded across various locations:
- Wolf Creek Pass: 6.3 inches
- Weminuche Wilderness Area: 5.6 inches
- Pagosa Airport: 3.1 inches
- Durango Airport: 2.5 inches
Many rivers swelled, roads were washed out, and rock slides occurred throughout Southern Colorado. On Saturday, evacuations were ordered for hundreds of homes near Vallecito Reservoir, located about 12 miles northeast of Durango. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that 5.2 inches fell from early Friday morning to early Sunday morning, leading to these necessary evacuations.
Flood Watches and Rescues
Flood watches remain active until midnight Tuesday, as meteorological forecasts predict additional rain. Areas under warning include:
- Archuleta County
- Hinsdale County
- La Plata County
- San Juan County
The NWS warns of potential for flash flooding due to tropical moisture from the remnants of Tropical Depression Raymond. Emergency responders carried out 11 high-water rescues on Saturday, particularly near a levee that broke on the east side of Vallecito Creek.
State and Local Response
No fatalities or injuries have been reported as of Sunday morning, and the mandatory evacuation orders for Pagosa Springs were lifted, though residents must remain cautious. Archuleta County has declared a local disaster emergency and requested state and federal assistance for recovery efforts. La Plata County has also made a similar declaration.
In response to the disaster, Governor Jared Polis activated the State Emergency Operations Plan. This includes authorizing the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to provide necessary help to affected communities. Reports indicate that the state might have already incurred costs of up to $1 million in response to the flooding.
Health Advisory
A boil-water advisory has been issued for residents with water wells and septic systems along the San Juan River due to flooding, wastewater overflow, and a water main break. Archuleta County Sheriff Mike Le Roux cautioned that the San Juan River was flowing at over 8,270 cubic feet per second, elevating the risk of further flooding.
Ongoing Weather Concerns
Forecasts indicate that between Monday afternoon and Wednesday, additional rainfall of 2.5 to 3.6 inches is possible. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and adhere to safety advisories as the situation evolves.
