Urgent Evacuation Alert: Colorado Officials Issue Orders for Vallecito Creek and Lake Residents Amid Levee Breach

Heavy rains in southwest Colorado have led to serious flooding, prompting urgent evacuations around Vallecito Creek and Vallecito Lake. On Saturday morning, the creek’s water level surged to alarming heights, reaching 1920 ft.

A video from High Altitude Pagosa shows the creek sweeping away trees along its banks, demonstrating the intensity of the situation.

By 10 a.m., the Upper Pine River Fire Protection District ordered an immediate evacuation for homes on West Vallecito Creek Drive. They reported breaches in the levee on the creek’s west side, increasing the risk to residents.

Later in the day, the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office announced that both Vallecito Creek and nearby Grimes Creek had overflowed their banks. Nearly 350 homes in the area have been evacuated. For more details, an evacuation map is available here.

Evacuation assistance is being provided at Bayfield High School, and an emergency call center is operational at (970) 385-8700 for any questions. Another 1-2 inches of rain are expected, raising concerns about further flooding.

The fire protection district stressed the urgency of evacuation. Many residents who hesitated now find themselves in precarious situations needing rescue. The district warned, “This water is fast-moving and filled with debris. Evacuate now!”

Road closures in the area include parts of Vallecito Creek Drive, Tucker Lane, Mountain View Drive, and others, making travel hazardous.

To help residents, La Plata officials are providing free sandbags at three locations:

• La Plata County Fairgrounds and Event Center at 2500 Main Avenue, Durango
• Upper Pine Fire Protection District Station 1 at 75 South Clover Drive, Bayfield
• Fort Lewis Mesa Fire Protection District Station at 164 County Road 130, Hesperus

A flood watch remains in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday. Rockslides and mudslides have also been reported along highways in the area, urging caution for any drivers. Avoid driving through flooded roads, as conditions can change rapidly.

Recent statistics show that Colorado has experienced an increase in heavy rainfall events, affecting both urban and rural areas. According to a report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the state has seen a 50% rise in heavy downpours compared to previous decades. This trend suggests that communities should continue to prepare for severe weather and consider long-term solutions for flood management.

As weather patterns shift, local authorities are balancing immediate response with the need for better infrastructure and safety measures. Engaging local communities and gathering public feedback can play an essential role in developing effective strategies for flood prevention and emergency response in the future. Staying informed and ready can help mitigate risks during these unpredictable weather events.

Source link