On Sept. 10, many areas of Colorado were issued flash flood warnings. Since that day, the flooding continued in many areas of the state throughout the weekend. The death toll continues to rise and is now suspected to be at six. There were more than 1000 people unaccounted for as of Sunday, Sept. 15. There are numerous people and pets who were still awaiting rescue as of Sunday as well. With rain continuing to pour all throughout the weekend, rescue efforts had been halted.
Many homes have been destroyed or damaged. Some people are waiting to hear from their loved ones, who may still be awaiting evacuation. According to CNN.com, President Barack Obama signed a major disaster declaration for Colorado on Sunday and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in Boulder County.
Also according to CNN.com, “Boulder County alone will need an estimated $150 million to repair 100 to 150 miles of roadway and 20 to 30 bridges.”
Many people who live in Col. are in disbelief and some who have friends and family there are worried.
“I used to live in Colorado, so I have a lot of friends there,” Loric Evans said. “There are a few [friends] that I haven’t been able to get a hold of that live in Boulder, so I’m just hoping they are okay.”
Some of those who live in Col., but were not affected by the flooding are thankful.
“So far, most people I know have not been affected by the storm,” Julie Yarrington, who lives in Frederick, Col., said. “Luckily, we have been spared as well. Road closures are everywhere. The streets are washed out. Water sanitation plants have been compromised and there are mandatory water restrictions and we are being advised to boil water before use.”
Yarrington said Boulder, Lyons, Estes Park, Loveland, Longmont and Greeley, Evans, Frederick and Firestone have been hit the worst with the flooding.
“These towns are literally floating in areas,” Yarrington said. “These are located near the northern and west foothills part of the state. Lyons has been split in two which half of it is an island.”
According to Yarrington, there is more rain to hit Col. this evening.
“Our mayor has declared Colorado in a state of disaster,” Yarrington said. “There is more rain that is forecasted to come tonight. Then it is supposed to have pass and we will hopefully dry out. About 1,000 people have been unaccounted for, 11,000 homes damaged and thousands of cars and several lives have been lost.”
As the rain subsides over the next few days, or weeks, the full extent of the damage will become clear, but as for now, the state of Col. is still in a state of disaster.
“The Big Thompson and St. Vrain rivers have crested in which they are rapidly overflowing into the towns.,” Yarrington said. “The South Platte river is also doing the same thing. Overflowing an causing complete and utter destruction. The water is flowing so rapidly, that it’s taking everything in its path.
Since the roads are washed out, it has become increasingly difficult for rescue workers to aid in evacuation.
“I really hope the rain calms down so that people who need help can get it,” Evans said. “And also so people who are wondering about their friends and loved ones can find out if they are okay.”
