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GRAND JUNCTION, CO – A flash flood warning is in effect for areas near the Roaring Fork River until late Sunday night due to the possible release of an ice jam that could cause a rapid rise in water levels and currents.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Junction, water levels on the Roaring Fork River above Difficult Creek have risen two feet since Thanksgiving, indicating the likelihood of an ice jam. There was a minor release on Friday, but rising levels suggest more releases could occur on Saturday or Sunday.

Affected areas include the Central Colorado River Basin and the Gore and Elk Mountains/Central Mountain Valleys, which include Carbondale, Basalt and Snowmass. Authorities are urging anglers and anyone near the river to exercise extreme caution. Debris and ice flowing in the river could create dangerous conditions.

Residents and visitors are advised to monitor weather updates and prepare to move to higher ground if conditions worsen. For more safety tips and updates, visit National Weather Service Flood Safety.

Emergency management officials stress the importance of avoiding the river until the situation stabilizes.

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