Colorado Flood Emergency Declared as Rivers Inundate Towns

A state of emergency is in effect across parts of southern Colorado. Raging floodwaters have overwhelmed communities, forcing swift evacuations. The towns of Pagosa Springs and La Plata County are among the hardest hit.

This crisis was triggered by heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Priscilla. Rivers swelled to unprecedented levels, spilling into downtown areas and residential neighborhoods. Officials have confirmed mandatory evacuation orders are active.

Pagosa Springs Submerged as San Juan River Overflows

In Pagosa Springs, the San Juan River breached its banks late Saturday. The river flow was measured at a dangerous 7,200 cubic feet per second. According to CBS, this led to immediate flooding in the town’s core.

Town leaders declared a local disaster emergency to unlock vital resources. They ordered mandatory evacuations for residents on Hermosa and San Juan Streets. An emergency shelter opened at the Ross Aragon Community Center to provide aid.

US Highway 160 was temporarily closed at the San Juan River Bridge. The emergency declaration is set for seven days unless extended by the town council. The situation remains highly dynamic and dangerous.

La Plata County Sees Unprecedented Flooding

The disaster extended into neighboring La Plata County. Officials there also declared a local disaster emergency. More than 390 homes near Vallecito Lake were evacuated due to severe flooding.

County spokesperson Sarah Jacobson described the flooding as unprecedented. She told 9News that Vallecito Creek’s flow was more than double a major spring runoff volume. Levees were compromised and bridges were destroyed, hampering rescue efforts.

Emergency crews have already performed numerous high-water rescues. Access to flooded county roads is now strictly prohibited. A secondary shelter for displaced residents was established at Bayfield High School.

Authorities Warn Danger is Not Over

Despite some water receding, officials urge continued vigilance. More rainfall is forecast for the region early this week. This could worsen conditions or cause new flooding in saturated areas.

The scale of the damage is still being assessed. Jacobson noted that nearly 100 homes were impacted, with some seeing two feet of water inside. Recovery efforts will be long and complex.

Residents are strongly advised to avoid all flooded roadways. They should monitor official channels for updates from local emergency services. The community is rallying to support those displaced by the disaster.

The unfolding Colorado flood emergency has demonstrated the raw power of nature, displacing families and testing local response systems as rivers reclaim their floodplains with devastating force.

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What caused the flooding in Colorado?

The flooding was caused by heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Priscilla. This led to rivers like the San Juan and Vallecito Creek overflowing their banks rapidly.

Which areas are under mandatory evacuation?

In Pagosa Springs, Hermosa and San Juan Streets are under orders. In La Plata County, over 390 homes near Vallecito Lake were evacuated.

Where are the emergency shelters located?

Shelters are open at the Ross Aragon Community Center in Pagosa Springs and at Bayfield High School for La Plata County evacuees.

Is the flooding expected to get worse?

Authorities warn that more rain is forecast for Monday and Tuesday. This could lead to continued or renewed flooding threats in the region.

What should residents do right now?

Residents must stay off flooded roads and obey all evacuation orders. They should follow updates from official emergency service channels for their safety.

Trusted Sources:
CBS News, 9News