USA – Deadly Flash Floods in Colorado and New Mexico

by in News, USA

Severe flooding struck in parts of Colorado and New Mexico, USA, over the last few days. Officials report at least 3 people have died and 3 more are missing as a result.

A mudslide triggered by heavy rain caused severe damage and loss of life in Colorado, 20 July 2021. Photo: Larimer County Sheriffs Office

Colorado

Flooding and mudslides struck in northern Colorado after heavy rain fell on burn scar areas on 20 July 2021. Evacuation notices were issued for areas near the town of Rustic, Larimer County.

A mudslide sent a large amount of debris into the Poudre Canyon in Larimer County. Three people were swept away in the mudslide. Larimer County Sheriff’s Office said the body of one of the victims was found but 2 people are still missing. At least five houses were destroyed and roads were damaged in the flooding. As search operations continue, emergency crews will be searching on foot and with drones, Larimer County Sheriff’s Office said.

New Mexico

Meanwhile storms brought heavy rain to Albuquerque, New Mexico, on 20 July. Three people were reported missing after they were swept into an arroyo (water channel) in the northeast of the city. Firefighters have since found the bodies of 2 victims. The search for the third person is ongoing.

NWS Albuquerque said radar estimates showed over 1.66 inches / 42.16mm of rain fell in just one hour on 20 July in the El Dorado area, north east of Albuquerque.

Severe flooding struck in New Mexico late last month when more than 5 inches of rain (127 mm) fell in 24 hours in areas of Eddy County. Homes were evacuated and police reported that 1 person was found dead in a vehicle driven into floodwaters in Carlsbad.

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