Mayor Shari Pierce and Town Manager David Harris declared a local disaster emergency on Oct. 22 in response to severe flooding affecting Pagosa Springs and the surrounding community.
Heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding, damaging roads, bridges, culverts and other public infrastructure while creating hazardous conditions for residents and visitors. The emergency declaration is a proactive measure to strengthen ongoing response efforts, expand coordination with emergency management partners, and support the community's recovery.
Flooding has resulted in major road closures, including portions of U.S. 160, and mandatory evacuations in affected low-lying and flood-prone areas along the San Juan, Rio Blanco, Navajo and Piedra rivers.
Residents and visitors should avoid flooded areas, limit unnecessary travel, and follow all evacuation orders and instructions from emergency personnel.
Archuleta County's Nixle emergency alert system is the primary source for current evacuation notices, emergency instructions, and public safety updates. To register for alerts, text 81147 to 888777 or visit local.nixle.com/register. For updated highway conditions and closures, visit COtrip.org.
Due to flooding in the area, the following Town facilities will be closed Friday, October 23:
Police, Public Works, and Parks crews will remain on duty in the field, actively supporting emergency response efforts, monitoring conditions, and addressing public safety and infrastructure needs throughout the community.
The declaration formalizes the town's emergency response efforts and provides additional tools to protect residents, property, and public infrastructure. It allows the town to coordinate assistance with local, state, and federal partners, utilize available emergency resources, expedite necessary repairs, and pursue additional funding to support recovery.
The declaration remains in effect for seven days unless extended or terminated through formal action.
The town is actively coordinating with emergency management officials, first responders and regional partners to monitor conditions, address immediate safety concerns, assess damage and plan recovery efforts.
As conditions evolve, the town will continue providing updates on municipal services, infrastructure impacts, and recovery activities through its official website and social media channels.
The town extends its appreciation to emergency responders, town employees, partner agencies, and community members for their continued cooperation and efforts to keep Pagosa Springs safe.
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