Animas River Peaks at 13,000 CFS in Durango Flooding

The Animas River reached nearly 13,000 cubic feet per second on Monday morning after heavy rain sent floodwaters through Durango, Colorado.

First responders prioritized urgent medical needs and rescue operations as the water levels rose. Durango Police Chief Brice Current described a scene at a flooding trailer park where the fire department watched propane tanks float away and pop off one at a time into the river. Current explained that crews had to triage emergencies, distinguishing between minor water damage and critical situations such as residents running low on oxygen.

The storm disrupted daily life across the region. Fort Lewis College closed for two days before reopening on Wednesday. Purgatory Ski Resort also reported impacts from the weather. At the La Plata County Fairgrounds, the American Red Cross provided shelter, food, and supplies to displaced families. Roger Enix of the Red Cross noted that people directly affected by the floods continued to help their neighbors, while those who were spared brought constant supplies.

Residents described the emotional toll of the event. Michelle Palacios, an evacuated resident, said she spent the night worried about the safety of her home and friends. She described the night as very scary and emotional because she did not know what would happen to her property or if her neighbors were okay. Palacios expressed relief that her family and home were safe but said witnessing a neighbor’s house completely flooded broke her heart.

City officials have issued an emergency disaster declaration. Crews are currently clearing mud and debris from streets and homes. The full extent of the damage remains unknown, and officials do not yet have a financial estimate for the recovery costs.