Severe Flooding in Pagosa Springs Forces Voting Changes – What Aurora Voters Need to Know
A sudden flash‑flood in Pagosa Springs has washed out two polling places just 48 hours before the 2026 midterm elections. Families who were ordered to evacuate on short notice are now scrambling to secure their ballots, and the situation is a stark reminder that unexpected weather can disrupt voting everywhere—including right here in Aurora.
Why this matters for Aurora residents
- Early‑voting sites can close without warning. If a natural disaster hits a neighboring community, the state may shift resources, affecting nearby precincts. - Mail‑in and ballot‑by‑mail options are still open. Colorado’s universal mail‑in ballot system means you can request or re‑request a ballot from anywhere in the state, even if your local site is compromised. - Emergency voting locations may be set up. The Colorado Secretary of State’s office often designates temporary sites in schools, community centers, or fire stations when standard locations are unusable.
What you can do right now
1. Check your ballot status online. Visit [Colorado Secretary of State – Voter Services](https://www.sos.state.co.us/voter) and enter your name, address, or voter ID to confirm whether your ballot has been mailed or if you need a replacement. 2. Request a replacement or an absentee ballot ASAP. With the midterm just days away, submit a new request through the same portal or call 303‑894‑2000. 3. Locate the nearest emergency voting site. Aurora’s Election Office will post updates on temporary locations on its website and on the city’s social‑media channels. 4. Spread the word. Share these steps with neighbors, especially seniors and families who may have been caught off‑guard by recent storms.
