Pueblo, CO – Subtropical moisture from a weakening Eastern Pacific hurricane is forecast to push into southwest Colorado this weekend, bringing periods of heavy rain and the risk of flash flooding across the Eastern San Juan Mountains, according to the US National Weather Service Pueblo.
Forecasters expect the heaviest rainfall from Friday through early Sunday, with 2 to 3 inches likely on the west-facing slopes of the Eastern San Juans, especially near Wolf Creek Pass and Cumbres Pass. The Upper Rio Grande Valley may also see locally heavy downpours during the same period.
According to the Weather Service, a Flash Flood Watch is now in effect for the region, with the highest threat along and just east of the Continental Divide. Motorists and hikers are urged to avoid low-lying areas and monitor rapidly changing conditions through the weekend.
The rainfall is being driven by moist tropical air streaming north from the Desert Southwest, a pattern capable of producing localized flooding in mountain canyons and near burn scars.
Travelers and residents should stay alert for updated watches and warnings through Sunday morning, as additional moisture could lead to isolated flash flooding or rockslides in steep terrain.
