Threat of flash flood becoming the norm in La Veta
For many in La Veta , the threat of flash flooding is on their minds at all times. The Spring Creek burn scar just outside of town has already begun to show locals just how dangerous it can be when heavy rains roll in.
On Monday and Wednesday, heavy rainfalls made some of the smaller waterways, i.e. Middle Creek, that flow directly from the burn scar swell up so much that they looked unrecognizable.
During Monday’s rainfall, Huerfano County called for a Code Red for parts of La Veta , specifically residents living north of the train tracks and within the flooding zone. A Code Red alerts residents to the potential of flash flooding. Under a Code Red residents should make for higher ground if they don’t feel safe.
Damages are still visible from Monday. These include broken fences, a damaged water gauge, and even a part of the railroad needing repairs.
The threat of flash flooding has become the norm in La Veta . According to the National Weather Service, since April the Spring Creek burn scar has been directly responsible for 17 flash flood warnings.
While much of downtown and residences remain untouched, preparations continue.
“We watch the sky, watch the clouds, and pay attention to the weather maps,” said La Veta resident Jonathan James.
James lives just a block away from the Cucharas River, and flash flooding presents a threat to his property. However, he is trying to keep his wits about him.
“Worrying about flooding doesn’t help too much but being prepared does help, ” said James. ” If you have ways to be realistic about what the risk is and be prepared for those, that in my opinion is far better than worrying.”
With there being a constant threat of flooding, locals feel exhausted.
“The emergency, the trauma, the flood, its almost like we don’t believe it’s going to happen until it happens,” said Emily Dubia . Dubia’s business, La Veta Mercantile, and her home are both in the flood zone.
” Right now, it really is monsoon season and the downpour we got Monday night was pretty intense, ” said Dubia . ” A lot of lightning and a lot of thunder. But maybe now we feel like if it didn’t flood then it’s not going to flood now. ” If it does flood and threatens homes, then sirens are in place to call for evacuations. One blast after a code red call means evacuation or get to higher ground.
Thursday, La Veta is on a flash flood watch from noon until midnight.
