PUEBLO, Colo. – Heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding are expected to impact southern Colorado’s mountain regions this weekend as subtropical moisture streams in from the Desert Southwest. The National Weather Service in Pueblo warns that a Flash Flood Watch remains in effect from Friday afternoon through early Sunday, with the highest risk centered over the eastern San Juan Mountains, including Wolf Creek and Cumbres Passes.
According to the NWS Pueblo office, widespread showers and thunderstorms will develop along and west of the Continental Divide Friday, spreading across the mountains and upper Rio Grande Valley through the weekend. Rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches are possible on west-facing slopes, raising concerns for debris flows and rapid runoff near recent burn scars. Heaviest rainfall is expected Friday night into Saturday, when isolated thunderstorms could produce locally higher amounts.
Travelers on U.S. Highway 160 should prepare for reduced visibility and potential road closures due to flooding or rockslides near mountain passes. Campers and hikers are urged to avoid narrow canyons, riverbanks, and low-lying areas during the heaviest rain. Meanwhile, conditions will stay mostly dry but slightly cooler across the plains from Pueblo to La Junta.
Emergency officials recommend monitoring local alerts and avoiding travel across flooded routes. Even shallow moving water can sweep away vehicles.
