Otero storm history

Sustained high flow releases from Pueblo Reservoir led to brief periods of minor flooding along the Arkansas River in La Junta (LXHC2) from June 12-13 and again on June 15. The LXHC2 stream gauge reported the first crest of 11.36 ft on June 12 and a second crest of 11.32 ft on Ju…

A microburst flipped over a 30-foot trailer home and killed the male occupant.

A 36-year old man was struck and killed by lightning while work outside on a farm.

Surface observations from KLHX.

Right lane of Hwy 50 flooded with one car stalled.

Flooded intersection at Highway 50 and Steen Ave, in La Junta, began at 8:55pm MDT. Road closed due to high water.

Locally heavy rainfall (radar QPE estimated 1-2 inches) resulted in a quick rise and brief period of minor flooding along the Arkansas River in La Junta (LXHC2). The river crested just above Minor Flood Stage at 11.20 ft. at 6:15am MDT.

One inch measured hail was reported.

Mesonet station fw4234 at Fowler reported 67mph wind gust.

Four transmission power poles along US50 just west of Manzanola blown down. Numerous trees down in Otero county. Time based on radar.

A trained spotter reported an 8 inch live tree limb blown off. Another dead tree was also blown down. 3/4 inch hail also occurred.

ASOS at the La Junta Airport reported wind gusts from a severe thunderstorm, which measured 63 kts.

Trained spotter reported mostly pea size hail, with quarter size mixed in.

Measured via the ASOS station (KLHX) airport.

La Junta airport.

Highway 350 closed between mile marker 47 and 48 due to road damage and flooding.

Reports of major flooding along Highway 50 and Highway 350 near La Junta. Multiple cars stuck in 3 feet of water.

There was 0.98 inches that fell within an hour.

Water in creek is over the road and bridge. Local estimates are that the creek is running at least 10 feet higher than normal.

Reported by La Junta surface observations.

Reported from a trained spotter.

Underpass flooded and impassable.

Flooding over Highway 50 in spots between Reynolds Ave and CR 24.

Blown down power poll.

Two power poles blow over.

Blown down power pole.

Spotter reports Highway 50 is closed in La Junta due to flash flooding under railroad underpass.

Otero county sheriffs office reported numerous trees down across the county.

Heavy rainfall of 2.22 inches.

Heavy rainfall of 2.50 inches.