Heavy rains triggered flash flooding and mandatory evacuations across parts of the south-west, with a Colorado town bracing for its main river to reach historic levels.
Officials in Pagosa Springs, a town of more than 2,000 in the Rockies, warned of potentially 'catastrophic' flooding as the San Juan River was forecast to crest at more than 20ft late on Sunday night. The river had already reached about 14ft by sundown, according to a county spokesperson. This level is close to the 17.8ft mark recorded during the 1911 flood, which severely damaged the town. Roads in and out of Pagosa Springs were closed, and residents not under evacuation orders were urged to remain indoors.
Communities in northern New Mexico and central Arizona also issued mandatory evacuations, with roads closed and residents urged to stay home. In Sedona, Arizona, officials ordered immediate evacuations near Oak Creek as floodwaters trapped people in their homes. Similar orders were issued in Yavapai County and the community of Camp Verde, where residents near swollen rivers and creeks were told to leave. In Gila County, the community of Gisela was fully evacuated due to rising waters along Tonto Creek. Flash flooding and river flooding also affected Tucson, where swift boat rescues were conducted due to rapidly moving waters.
Why it matters
Mandatory evacuations and road closures disrupt local movement and emergency access in the south-west.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch for river level updates from officials in Pagosa Springs as the San Juan River continues to rise.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.