Debris flows from storms close roads remain a hazard overnight

   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

 

For additional information, please       September 19, 2013

contact: Butch Knowlton at 970-749-8122      8:45 p.m. 

   

  Road Closures Due to Heavy Rainfall in La Plata County

 

Durango, CO - Runoff from excessive rainfall that began at approximately 5:30 p.m. in La Plata County this evening caused flash flooding to occur in areas of central La Plata County, from Durango to Vallecito Reservoir.  The National Weather Service Radar estimated that 1 to 2 inches of rain fell with localized rainfall of up to 3 inches within this short period of time.  Several inches of large hail fell in areas of La Plata County with hail being reported at nearly golf-ball size.  

 

Several road closures were reported and La Plata County Road and Bridge crews are on-site working to clear the roads:

 

· County Road 250 is closed in the 3000 block with 10 feet of debris on the roadway.  Road & Bridge crews have equipment on site and are working to clear the road, but the road will remain closed overnight.  There will be no through traffic on County Road 250 tonight - it is open from Trimble Lane south to the 3700 block and from 32^nd Street north to the 3000 block of County Road 250  A few homes on County Road 250 were damaged from debris flows and flooding.  

· County Road 240 was closed for a rockslide in the 9600 block near Red Creek, but has been cleared and reopened.

· County Road 501 was closed for several debris flows, but has been cleared and reopened.

· County Road 243 experienced debris flows, but is currently open.

· County Road 245 experienced debris flows, but is currently open.

· County Road 203 experienced debris flows, but is currently open.

· Southbound traffic on Highway 550 in the 5800 block at the Iron Horse Inn is closed.  North-bound traffic is currently open.  Southbound traffic is being diverted onto Animas View Drive.

 

Any of the areas that experienced flash floods or debris flows may experience flooding again with minimal amounts of rain.  Residents are asked to be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. If flooding is observed, act quickly. Do not enter the water. Turn around and move up to higher ground. Do not stay in areas subject to flooding when water begins rising.

 

Motorists should drive slowly and carefully as they may encounter debris on the roads.  Motorists should never drive into areas where the water covers the roadway. The water depth may be too great to allow a safe crossing.

 

The National Weather Service is the best source for weather updates and has issued a flood warning that will remain in effect for La Plata County until 9:00 p.m.

 

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