Governor Polis Provides Update on Flooding in Southwest Colorado

DENVER ~ Colorado Gov. Jared Polis expanded a disaster emergency declaration to include Conejos County as flooding continued across Southwest Colorado, with about 100 people evacuated and others stranded in their homes, according to the governor's office.

Polis verbally declared the emergency the previous night for La Plata, Archuleta, Montezuma, Dolores, Hinsdale, San Miguel, Ouray, San Juan, Mineral, Alamosa and Rio Grande counties. The state is coordinating with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe on flooding impacts to tribal land, the release said.

"First responders have tirelessly spent the day rescuing Coloradans stranded due to the flooding and helping people safely evacuate," Polis said. He urged residents to follow emergency orders and prioritize their safety.

The State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating the response. Colorado Search and Rescue teams have been deployed, while the Department of Natural Resources is supporting swiftwater rescues and Division of Fire Prevention and Control helicopters are assisting people stranded by floodwaters. Colorado State Patrol troopers and state emergency-management field managers are supporting local operations centers and shelters. The Colorado National Guard is assisting with rescues and search efforts.

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The Colorado Department of Transportation reported closures and restrictions on several highways. US 550 over Red Mountain Pass between Silverton and Ouray has one lane open to alternating traffic. US 160 is closed in both directions on a stretch west of Pagosa Springs and over Wolf Creek Pass. CO 17 is closed over Cumbres and La Manga passes, and CO 151 is closed near Chimney Rock. CO 112 is closed in both directions between Del Norte and Center because of flooding.

The department advised travelers to check cotrip.org for current road conditions and closures. The state also warned people not to drive through floodwater when the road beneath cannot be seen.

Residents can call 2-1-1 or visit 211colorado.org/disaster-response for information on evacuations, shelters and temporary housing vouchers for people in mandatory evacuation zones.

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