Floods spur evacuations in Colorado and New Mexico as Utah homes are hit

Floodwater reaches Utah properties

More than 100 houses and recreational vehicles in Hurricane, Washington County, were affected by flash flooding, the Salt Lake Tribune reported. The report also said flooding struck parts of Zion National Park and that the Escalante River rose substantially during 36 hours of rain.

Colorado orders evacuations

Authorities in Archuleta County and Pagosa Springs evacuated low-lying communities around the San Juan, Rio Blanco, Navajo and Piedra rivers, according to Colorado Public Radio. A mandatory evacuation order covered areas near the rivers, while a flood warning for Archuleta County was expected to remain in effect into Friday morning.

Flooding blocked several routes in Archuleta County, including sections of County Road 500, North Pagosa Boulevard and Colorado 151. Streets in Pagosa Springs were also closed. US 550 across Red Mountain Pass had been shut in anticipation of heavy rainfall and flooding.

Residents in the North Vallecito area of La Plata County received a pre-evacuation order. Colorado Public Radio reported that part of County Road 509 near Dry Creek collapsed when a culvert was lost amid heavy rain, mud and debris. Other county roads were closed or damaged.

New Mexico warns of rising rivers

The San Juan County Office of Emergency Management said water was rising along the Animas and San Juan rivers and instructed people near the water to evacuate immediately, KOB 4 reported. A shelter was available at McGee Park.