Mudslides close two popular mountain passes in Colorado due to "extensive" damage

Telluride-area Black Bear Pass and Imogene Pass have been closed after multiple mudslides and flooding caused extensive damage in the area overnight. Bridal Veil Road was also damaged.

The local sheriff's office described the damage as severe, with some roads in the impacted area washed out completely. Closures are expected to be in place for at least this week, possibly longer.

Traffic in and out of Telluride is still open. Crews are working to the clear the roads in the impacted area of debris.

Patience from the public has been requested, with closures in place until further notice.

Imogene Pass is known for its scenic views, connecting the Telluride area to Ouray. Meanwhile, Black Bear Pass is notoriously known as one of the most extreme passes to travel in the state, often sought out by Jeep-driving thrill-seekers.

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