Heavy rains earlier this week in southern Colorado have caused severe flooding, resulting in significant damage to a road in the foothills west of Colorado Springs. The flooding has led to a portion of North Cheyenne Cañon Road being destroyed. The city has closed several roads as they assess the damage and plan repairs, while the weather is expected to remain unstable in the coming days.
Flooding in North Cheyenne Cañon Road
The intense rainfall caused high runoff in North Cheyenne Creek, leading to a collapse of part of North Cheyenne Cañon Road. A video shared by the city shows significant damage, with pavement broken off from one lane and rushing water flowing under the collapsed section. The washout was first discovered on Wednesday morning, and it is located about 1.5 miles up the canyon.
Impact on Local Roads and Parks
Due to the damage, both gates to North Cheyenne Cañon Park have been closed for safety and assessment. Additionally, Gold Camp Road is closed to everyone except local residents. These closures are necessary for officials to evaluate the damage and prevent further risk to motorists and pedestrians.
City’s Plan for Repairs
The city has announced that they are working on a plan to repair the damaged road and prevent future issues. The repairs will be prioritized to ensure the safety of the area, as the flooding has created major challenges for local infrastructure. The damage assessment is ongoing, with officials focused on addressing both immediate repairs and longer-term solutions.
Ongoing Weather Concerns
The heavy rainfall in the region has been persistent, with the Colorado Springs Airport reporting rain on 12 out of the last 14 days. The weather is expected to stay unsettled, with more rain predicted through next Thursday. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, aware of the ongoing challenges posed by the weather.
The flooding and road damage in the foothills of Colorado Springs have highlighted the region’s vulnerability to heavy rains. With the ongoing threat of more rain, the city is working diligently to assess the damage and create a plan for repairs. As the weather remains unpredictable, the community is urged to stay updated on road closures and follow safety instructions. The city’s efforts to repair North Cheyenne Cañon Road and other affected areas are crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike.