What Happened to These Colorado Roads After October Flooding?

A dismal winter, a dry spring, wildfires most of the year, record-breaking summer heat, and now record rainfall. 2026 in Colorado has been hazardous, to say the least.

Last week, devastating flooding washed out roads, forced 1,000s to evacuate, and caused enough damage that Governor Polis declared a disaster emergency in twelve counties. As the waters recede, here’s an update on the roads.

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US 550 Reopens After Flood Damage Near Ophir Pass

Heavy flooding on Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway washed away part of the shoulder and travel lane near the Ophir Pass turnoff, north of Silverton. The damage on 10/22 required CDOT to close Red Mountain Pass until 5 p.m. If you go, traffic on US 550 is limited to one alternating lane controlled by a temporary signal. Additional repairs are expected in the coming days.

Hurricane Trudy Remnants Bring Heavy Rains to Colorado

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The rain began Wednesday night (10/21), and by Friday, flooding had started across southwestern Colorado. Rainfall totals from the Durango Herald reached 5.05 inches in Pagosa Springs, 3.06 inches in Durango, and 3.27 inches in Bayfield, fueled by moisture from the remnants of Hurricane Trudy.

Colorado's San Juan River Surges

Communities along Colorado’s San Juan River survived several scary days in a row after heavy rains swelled the river to 15 feet on October 23, before falling to 12 feet later that day. The subtropical weather system caused significant flooding in Archuleta, La Plata, and several neighboring counties.

Colorado Roads Damaged by Floodwaters

Now that counties have had a chance to assess the damage, some of the hardest-hit roads included Colorado Highway 151 near Chimney Rock, where pavement completely washed away; US 160 over Wolf Creek Pass, where culverts and retaining walls were damaged; and US 160 near the Four Corners, closed because of high water at the San Juan River Bridge. Archuleta County Road 500 and La Plata County Roads 334 and 520 also suffered serious damage.

Colorado Declares Disaster as Flood Recovery Begins

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The Governor’s disaster declaration allows the National Guard to help thousands of people trying to escape flooded areas. As of October 26, some Archuleta County residents remained stranded along heavily damaged County Road 500. State and local crews are working to restore access, but repairs to washed-out roads could take weeks or longer. Residents needing evacuation assistance should call 970-731-2160, while general flood questions should go to 970-508-9928.