Extreme Rain Raises Navajo Reservoir by 60 Feet
• Back-to-back extreme rain events in late October and early November 2026 caused significant flooding across the Four Corners region of the U.S. Southwest. The Navajo Reservoir, located in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado, rose by nearly 60 feet (18 meters) during this period, reaching its highest level since August
• The storms alleviated short-term drought conditions but triggered damaging floods, particularly in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, where the San Juan River reached major flood stage twice. Experts attribute the heavy rainfall to a low-pressure system energized by unusually high ocean temperatures and El Niño patterns.
Impact & Risks
The extreme rainfall caused widespread flooding, damaging property and infrastructure in affected areas. Pagosa Springs, Colorado, experienced severe flooding, with evacuation orders issued and dozens of residents rescued. While the storms provided relief from short-term drought, long-term drought conditions persist in parts of the region. Communities along rivers and reservoirs remain vulnerable to future flooding events, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
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