Debris Flow — Mesa, Colorado

2023-08-18 · near Cameo, Mesa, Colorado

Event narrative

A strong thunderstorm developed over the Grand Mesa before moving northward over I-70. This led to a significant rockslide occurring on the interstate near the Highway 65 junction, or near mile marker 49. The eastbound lanes were closed for a period of time with some of the rocks making it to the westbound lanes. Radar estimated 0.60 to 0.90 inches of rain fell.

Wider weather episode

As the ridge of high pressure moved into a more favorable position near the Southern Plains, western Colorado was able to access the deeper monsoon moisture. This led to increased coverage of showers and thunderstorms. Storms were slow moving and produced heavy rain which led to some flooding in portions of Mesa County.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (39.1902, -108.2846)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1113835. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.