Heavy rain triggered multiple mudslides that sent water and debris into a historic theater and a public school in the Colorado mountain town of Telluride on Friday, leaving both buildings with significant flood damage but no reported injuries.
The Telluride Fire Protection District responded to the Palm Theater at approximately 5:30pm after a school official requested assistance while traveling to investigate reports of flooding. Firefighters arrived to find extensive mud and standing water surrounding both the Palm Theater and the neighboring Telluride Intermediate School.
Crews immediately began checking the area for structural damage, electrical hazards, gas leaks, and other dangers created by the flooding.
Mudslides Swept Down Mountainside
According to the Telluride Fire Protection District, the flooding was caused by multiple mudslides that began around 3:30pm on the mountainside near the Jud Wiebe Trail between Butcher Creek and Cornet Creek. The debris flows carried mud and water downhill into developed areas before reaching two community buildings.
Most of the exterior doors at the Palm Theater held back the floodwaters but one loading dock door was damaged, allowing water and mud to rush inside the building. Firefighters found an estimated three to four feet of standing water and mud inside the theater.
The nearby Telluride Intermediate School also sustained extensive flooding. Several classrooms and hallways were left with approximately five to six inches of water and mud.
Mountain Communities Face Growing Flood Risks
Although Telluride is best known as one of Colorado’s premier ski destinations, its steep terrain can become especially vulnerable to flooding and mudslides during periods of intense rainfall. Fast moving debris flows can develop quickly, carrying rocks, mud, and water into neighborhoods, roads, and public buildings with little warning.
Officials reported no injuries as a result of Friday’s flooding,. Damage assessments and cleanup operations are expected to continue as officials work to determine the full impact of the flooding.