Pagosa Springs, Colorado, faced unprecedented flooding between October 10 and 15, triggered by the remnants of Tropical Storms Priscilla and Raymond. The San Juan River overflowed its banks, cresting at levels up to nine feet above normal, forcing mandatory evacuations for approximately 390 homes and the closure of Highway 160 through downtown.
Local authorities declared a disaster emergency as rainfall totals reached up to 160 mm (6.3 inches) in some areas, causing widespread devastation. Downtown areas were particularly hard-hit, with businesses and resorts suffering extensive water damage. Archuleta County Sheriff Mike Le Roux reported continuous rain that exacerbated rising water levels, prompting ongoing evacuation orders.
Community Impact and Response
Residents described the events as historic, with two major floods occurring within four days. Social media posts from locals and weather monitors highlighted the severity, showing videos of overflowing rivers and flooded streets. One resort in the area reported significant operational disruptions, as noted in coverage by KJCT8.
"Major flooding tore through the town of Pagosa Springs, CO, on Saturday. A mandatory evacuation order was put out as the San Juan River crested at NINE FEET over normal levels," according to a post on X from WeatherNation.
The Pagosa Springs Sun detailed the tropical moisture's role in these events, emphasizing the rapid succession of floods along the San Juan River. Evacuations remained in effect as rain continued, with flood alerts extending into the following week, as reported by The Denver Post.
Looking Ahead
As the community begins recovery, officials are assessing long-term damage to infrastructure and preparing for potential future rain events. With the rainy season ongoing, local leaders are urging residents to stay informed about weather forecasts and to participate in flood mitigation planning sessions scheduled for early November. This proactive approach aims to enhance resilience against similar disasters in the coming months.
The content of this article was computed by analyzing available sources.