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Southwestern Colorado is reeling from record-breaking floods after days of torrential rain tied to the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond.
The storms dumped between two and six inches of rain across the San Juan Mountains and surrounding valleys, according to the National Weather Service. The highest totals were reported near Wolf Creek Pass (6.3 inches) and Vallecito (5.2 inches), according to CBS News Colorado. The outlet also reports that a levee breach along Vallecito Creek sent floodwaters through residential areas, damaging at least 90 homes, two of which were destroyed when erosion undermined their foundations. Mandatory evacuations were ordered.
Farther south, the San Juan River overflowed its banks in Pagosa Springs, swamping riverside neighborhoods and businesses. The Pagosa Springs Resort & Spa reported significant flooding of its lower-level pools and facilities, according to the Colorado Sun. Roughly 10 of its 50 pools were drained and cleaned after water and debris overwhelmed sandbag barriers, though most reopened within a day.
Governor Polis issued an emergency declaration Sunday which, per The Durango Herald, “activates the State Emergency Operations Plan and authorizes the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management … up to an initial $1 million in costs.”
No fatalities or serious injuries have been reported, authorities said Monday. Some evacuees may be allowed to return home as early as Tuesday, depending on weather and safety conditions. Forecasters warn that additional rainfall could extend flooding risks through midweek. Local officials are urging residents to stay alert to changing weather conditions and to avoid flooded roads and waterways.
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