Colorado flashfloods result in an estimated USD1 billion in damages

By Marc Castro

Sep 14, 2013 11:48 PM EDT

WIth much of the area's infrastructure destroyed in the Northern Colorado area as well as over a hundred of people still missing, the flash flood damage to the area would take months to unravel and finally resolve,

WIth parts of at least 18 different towns and cities that run alongside the Front Range and Northern Colorado foothills flooded, the main casualties come from Aurora, Boulder, east Denver, Fort Collins and several others. It would be no surprise if the damage sustained for the flash flood tops USD1 billion after damage estimates are done and finally collated.

Colorado has a long history of flash floods but none as destructive or as costly as this one according tot he National Center for Atmospheric Research's Weather and Climate Impact and Assessment Program. Because of this, rescuers had issued stern warnings by Saturday for those thinking or remaining in their homes: Leave now or be prepared to endure weeks without utilities and basic supplies.

The message was conveyed by National Guard helicopters and truck envoys but despite that, many still sought to remain to watch over their homes. According to Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle, "We're not trying to force anyone from their home. We're not trying to be forceful but we're trying to be very factual and definitive about consequences of their decision and we hope that they will come down."

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