By Basant El-Faramawy
Massive flooding across the U.S. Southwest has turned communities into lakes of mud, leaving residents to confront widespread destruction as waters recede.
Scale of disaster
More than 20 trillion gallons of rain fell on the Four Corners states and Nevada over two weeks, according to former NOAA chief scientist Ryan Maue. Flood risks persist as water moves through the arid landscape where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet.
Casualties and disruptions
One person died in the floodwaters and a second death is suspected to be weather-related. Some communities in Colorado and Utah altered Election Day voting plans, while in Florida, at least eight counties changed polling places after Governor Ron DeSantis declared an emergency.
Cleanup begins in Colorado
In Pagosa Springs, Colorado, walkways and bridges collapsed or were heavily damaged. Retired teacher Jack Ellis described the situation as a disaster for low-lying areas, expressing hope for federal assistance.
Homeowners confront losses
In Durango, Colorado, Willow Bradner’s home was surrounded by two feet of mud after Junction Creek overflowed. The couple, who were told they were outside the flood zone, face overwhelming uncertainty as their savings are tied to the property.
Rivers crest in New Mexico
Officials in San Juan County, New Mexico, reported that the San Juan, Animas, and La Plata rivers have all crested but remain above flood stage, with waters expected to recede over the next 24 to 48 hours.
