Governor Polis Urges Southwestern Coloradans to Heed Evacuation Orders as Historic Flooding Threatens Region

DENVER - Governor Jared Polis is urging Coloradans in southwestern Colorado, particularly those in Archuleta County and Pagosa Springs, to immediately heed local evacuation orders as forecasted historic flooding threatens the region. The San Juan River is forecast to rise above historic flood levels and more than 6 feet higher than last weekend, creating extremely dangerous flood conditions. Coloradans in affected areas should sign up for local emergency alerts immediately, follow instructions from local authorities, and check COtrip.org for closures and evacuation routes before traveling. Significant road closures due to dangerous flood conditions will impact travel, making it important to follow posted evacuation orders.

"If you are in an evacuation zone, please follow instructions from local authorities and leave now. Do not wait for floodwaters to rise. Your safety and the safety of your family must come first. Colorado has deployed emergency response resources to help protect communities, but worsening conditions could make rescue operations dangerous. Please listen to local authorities, sign up for emergency alerts, and check road conditions before evacuating," said Governor Polis.

Resources for affected Coloradans

• Sign up for emergency alerts: Sign up to receive emergency alerts in your area.
  Assistance, shelter and temporary lodging information: Call 2-1-1, text your ZIP code to 898-211, or visit 211 Colorado's disaster response page.
  Road conditions and closures: Visit COtrip.org or use the COtrip Planner app. Road closures along US 160 are anticipated to start at 2pm and be announced via COTrip.
  Learn how to be flood ready and stay safe during a flood: Never walk or drive through floodwaters, debris, or around barricades. Return to evacuated areas only when local officials say it is safe. Find tips for staying safe during floods and what to do when you are under a flood warning at Ready.gov/floods.
  Volunteer cleanup assistance: Call Crisis Cleanup at 970-283-7325 to request free volunteer help.
  Local updates, damage-reporting links and additional resources: Visit DHSEM's regularly updated State Emergency Operation Center Updates page.
  Immediate emergencies: Call 911.

This release may be updated with additional information.

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