Southwest Colorado Floods Leave 50 Rescued, $11.5 Million in Road Repairs

The Colorado National Guard has rescued more than 50 people, over 20 dogs, and several cats from the southwest portion of the state following a second round of severe flooding. State officials confirmed these figures as crews continue search and rescue operations in the San Luis Valley. The rescue effort was supported by a 17-member swift water team from FEMA's Colorado Task Force 1.

The flooding caused extensive damage to the region's transportation network, prompting the Federal Highway Administration to approve $6.5 million in emergency funding. The Colorado Transportation Commission added $5 million from its contingency fund, bringing the total available for immediate repairs to $11.5 million. CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew stated that this money will be used to open roads before winter arrives. She noted that US 160 has sustained damage at several separate locations along a 100-mile stretch from Durango to South Fork.

Specific infrastructure failures include the Piedra River Bridge on US 160, located 18 miles west of Pagosa Springs. The bridge's piers collapsed, and CDOT is working to install a temporary structure while planning a permanent rebuild. Floodwaters also washed out portions of Colorado Highway 151 near mile markers 27 and 30, and a section of Colorado Highway 17 near mile marker 3, which connects Antonito to Chama, New Mexico. A bridge on County Road 202 was destroyed, cutting off access to eight parcels in the area.

Governor Jared Polis said the state is working around the clock to assess damage, restore essential services, and repair infrastructure. He thanked local authorities, first responders, National Guard members, and emergency crews for their continuous efforts. Polis also acknowledged the work of Southwestern County Clerks in ensuring residents can vote in the election held on Tuesday, November 3. Cellular service in Archuleta County was temporarily disrupted but has since been restored, allowing residents to contact emergency services.

The flooding has displaced many residents, and 211 Colorado has issued Airbnb stays for 157 evacuated households. The organization is also providing temporary housing for 29 critical workers and first responders on the ground. Governor Polis requested a presidential major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump on Saturday. He cited nearly $27 million in preliminary public infrastructure damage in Archuleta and Rio Grande counties, an estimate that does not include private property damage or impacts from the most recent storm.

The San Juan River in Pagosa Springs crested at 16.81 feet, which was below the highest forecast levels, but significant flooding still occurred across multiple watersheds. CDOT crews are inspecting damaged bridges and highways, with Wolf Creek Pass remaining closed from mile marker 150 to 183. At least three locations on that 33-mile closure require emergency repairs, including a failed culvert near Pagosa Springs and mudslides up to six feet high near the pass summit.