The 2013 Colorado Floods
The 2013 Colorado floods have been one of the worst natural disasters to hit the state in decades. So far, the record-setting rains and subsequent flooding have inundated over 1,500 square miles of land and 17 counties. Nearly 2,000 homes have been destroyed, thousands more have been damaged and at least eight people have been killed. Naturally, hundreds more are still unaccounted for.
Even though things are getting better thanks to floodwaters finally beginning to recede and the largest aerial rescue effort since Hurricane Katrina, the shock of what has happened and what continues to happen will be fresh in the minds of Colorado residents for some time. It’s hard to imagine how bad things can get until it is seen first-hand. Asphalt roads have been literally smashed to pieces, large vehicles are submerged and new waterfalls and rivers look like they’ve replaced large residential areas. It looks surreal, and even those who have been lucky enough to still have their homes after the worst of this has happened won’t soon forget it. Even those who have never set foot in Colorado are reeling from the damage this flooding has caused.
Some people are asking how this kind of damage could’ve happened. After all, it’s easy to forget how much damage nature itself can cause. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the flooding occurred after a period of drought in Colorado that was brought on when tropical moisture from Tropical Storms Manuel and Ingrid stalled frontal systems. Not only did this cause the aforementioned drought, but it caused the record rainfall that led to flash flooding throughout much of Colorado.
Fortunately, there seems to be some light at the end of the tunnel. As we said before, floodwaters are finally receding, and rescue workers have been working hard to get people to safety. The worst appears to be behind us, but the 2013 Colorado floods will always serve as a stark reminder to how much damage Mother Nature can do. Colorado is a resilient state that binds together to help each other. FEMA and other agencies such as the Red Cross have been integral in the recovery efforts but rebuilding and healing will get its best strength from local Colorado people. Smith & Willis Heating & Air Conditioning wants to support our friends and neighbors affected by the flood. We will donate $100 from now until January 1st to the Colorado flood victims from every furnace sold, donate a portion of the proceeds of service calls to flood relief, and give 15% off flood victim service recommendations. Be Colorado strong.
