This morning, the Hinsdale County Board of Commissioners ratified a local disaster declaration due to post avalanche events impacting some of our waterways. Avalanche activity combined with annual runoff has caused debris blockage.

Yesterday, Governor Polis verbally authorized an executive order for a state of emergency that enables the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Colorado State Emergency Operations Center to provide planning support and staffing for a multi-agency coordination group as Hinsdale County lessens the severity of post-avalanche impacts.

The Hinsdale County Road & Bridge crew has cleared one lane to Capitol City.  However, the narrow makeup of the canyon in the Klondike slide area the river, road and snowmelt has caused a buildup of debris.   Local, regional, and state representatives are visiting the site today to determine next steps to avoid the road washing out.   Currently, the gate above Snowden’s Meadow remains closed to vehicular traffic.

Join Hinsdale County and the Town of Lake City for a public briefing at 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 8^th, at the Armory.    The audio of the briefing will be posted on-line and the event may occur on Facebook Live, if capabilities allow.

Follow Hinsdale County Facebook page or website for updates.

Sign up for Code Red Alerts on the Hinsdale County website.   If you need assistance signing up, please visit the Silver Thread Public Health District.

Klondike Slide and County Road 20