Pagosa Springs faced a devastating flood this weekend as the remnants of Tropical Storm Priscilla collided with a mid-latitude low, unleashing torrential rain across southwest Colorado. The San Juan River surged to over 7,200 cubic feet per second—more than double its seasonal average—prompting evacuations, road closures, and a state-level emergency response.

According to the National Weather Service, Wolf Creek Pass received 6.3 inches of rain, while Pagosa Springs Airport recorded 3.1 inches between Friday and Sunday. The river’s crest ranks among the top three highest since 1911, with floodwaters inundating downtown streets and low-lying neighborhoods.

Local officials issued mandatory evacuation orders for Hermosa Street and San Juan Street east of Hot Springs Boulevard. The Ross Aragon Community Center was activated as a shelter. Highway 160 and County Road 500 were closed, and the downtown bridge was shut due to high water. Governor Jared Polis enacted the State Emergency Operations Plan to mobilize resources statewide.

Approximately 90 homes were damaged, with at least two considered total losses. A boil-water advisory was issued for residents using private wells and septic systems after wastewater overflowed and a water main broke. Power outages affected multiple districts but were resolved within 24 hours.

Neighboring La Plata County also saw significant impacts, with levee breaches near Vallecito Lake and the Los Pinos River prompting the evacuation of nearly 400 homes.

Flood watches remain in effect through Tuesday, October 14, as additional rainfall is forecast. Damage assessments and infrastructure inspections are ongoing. Officials have praised the swift response of residents and emergency crews, noting that no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported.