Colorado Gov. Polis seeks federal disaster aid after southwest flooding
The gist
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis asked President Trump for an expedited major disaster declaration after floods hit 12 counties.
Residents face another round of heavy rain with the San Juan River forecast above 19 feet.
How it unfolded
- Oct 22, 2026Severe storms began in southwestern Colorado; Gov. Polis declared a disaster emergency for 11 counties, later amended to include Conejos County.
- Oct 23, 2026Flooding overturned an RV in Archuleta County; a National Guard Black Hawk crew rescued two people, three dogs and two cats. Pickup trucks were submerged along Highway 160 in South Fork.
- Oct 24, 2026The San Juan River at Pagosa Springs crested at 15.02 feet.