Published time: September 15, 2013 01:59
Manuel Sanchez takes in the view of his flooded home and property on September 14, 2013 in La Salle, Colorado (AFP Photo / Marc Piscotty)
Four people have been confirmed dead and 350 reported missing following devastating floods in Colorado. Authorities fear the death toll will rise as thousands are rescued from the flood zone.
Since the region’s worst flooding in decades began Wednesday four
people have already been confirmed dead and police expects to
find more bodies as the scope of damage becomes clear.
“Given the destruction, there is a high probability” of
more fatalities, Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle said at a media
briefing.
However, authorities said some of those 350 residents who remain
unaccounted for might be stranded or cut off from electricity and
communication.
The flood zone has grown to cover an area of nearly 11,655 square
kilometres (4,500 square miles). Flash flood waters toppled
buildings, washed out roads and bridges effectively cutting
ground access to the area.
Search-and-rescue teams deployed to the area are using boats and
helicopters to pull stranded residents to safety. By Saturday
evening, more than 1,200 people had been evacuated, National
Guard Lt. Col. Mitch Utterback said.
The scope of the damage dealt to infrastructure and property
remains unknown, as assessment teams are expected to begin
evaluation once the water recedes. The National Weather Service
warned of scattered showers and thunderstorms later on Saturday
and into Sunday that could possibly trigger more flash flooding.
Copyright: RT