My flight to Reykjavik was weather-delayed Tuesday night because of heavy fog in Iceland. While waiting at DIA, it started to rain. Little did I know, this rain would not end ‘til Friday and create Boulder County’s worst flood since 1976.

Most of the small towns toured in Iceland had limited TV & Internet access.  That said, could not have been more surprised to see military helicopters airlifting folks from Boulder County on BBC News.  How could this be happening?  I live in an arid climate which relies on heavy winter snowfall to fill local reservoirs.

South Boulder was overwhelmed with flood waters causing damages in the tens of millions.  Towns such as Jamestown & Lyons are significantly damaged.  Both Highways 36 & 34 were washed-out/destroyed, isolating Estes Park & access to Rocky Mountain National Park.  I’ve hiked in all of these towns along the Front Range.

Highway & bridge reconstruction will last 8 months to 2 years.  Trails in Boulder County are closed & come with a Warning — $1,000 fine and/or 90 days in jail if rescue crews are diverted from flood efforts to rescue hikers.  Additionally, our governor has hired a Chief Recovery Officer from the private sector to oversee rebuilding efforts – principally, creating temporary road & bridge access by December 1st when winter weather sets in.

Luckily my home suffered zero damage.  Many thanks to friends & family who reached out.  Much appreciated 🙂

 

WATCH Boulder Flood 2013 (YouTube video)

Boulder Flood pic1Boulder Flood pic2Boulder Flood pic3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *