The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control has issued evacuation orders for areas around Vallecito Creek and north of Vallecito Lake due to levee breaches and subsequent flooding. Heavy rainfall in southwest Colorado has exacerbated conditions, leading to flooding along the San Juan River north of Pagosa Springs and in the South Fork of the Rio Grande.
Evacuation Details
As of 10:08 a.m., the Upper Pine River Fire Protection District announced the immediate evacuation of homes on West Vallecito Creek Drive. Breaches in the levee have been confirmed on the creek’s west side. The La Plata County Sheriff’s Office reported that both Vallecito Creek and Grimes Creek have overflowed their banks.
- Over 350 homes have been evacuated north of Vallecito Lake.
- Evacuation check-in is at Bayfield High School.
- Emergency call center is available at (970) 385-8700.
Weather Impact and Warnings
Officials predict an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain in the coming hours. The Upper Pine River Fire Protection District urged those in the evacuation zone to leave immediately, warning that those who choose to stay may require rescue.
- Current rainfall has raised Vallecito Creek’s level to 1920 ft as of 6:00 a.m.
- Evacuation warnings will persist until conditions improve tonight, with peak flood levels expected around 8:00 p.m.
Local authorities are working to prevent debris from damaging the bridge at Grimes and Vallecito Creek. Crews are also sandbagging around vulnerable areas, particularly at Blue Spruce RV.
Road Closures and Safety Measures
Several roads are closed due to the flooding, including:
- East of Vallecito Creek Drive
- Tucker Lane
- Mountain View Drive
- Scenic Drive
- West Vallecito Creek
- Ponderosa Drive
- Faith Lane
Additionally, Wolf Creek Pass and Pagosa Street in downtown Pagosa Springs are also inaccessible due to high water levels.
Sandbag Distribution
In light of the anticipated heavy rainfall, La Plata County officials are offering free sandbags at three locations:
- North side of the arena at La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Avenue, Durango.
- Upper Pine Fire Protection District Station 1, 75 South Clover Drive, Bayfield.
- Fort Lewis Mesa Fire Protection District Station, 164 County Road 130, Hesperus.
A flood watch is currently in effect until 6 a.m. on Sunday. Citizens in the area are advised to drive cautiously and avoid flooded roadways to ensure safety amid the severe weather conditions.
