Officials met in Ouray County this week to officially ratify an emergency disaster declaration. Monsoon rains returned to Colorado in early August, and the significant increase in moisture has caused serious damage to area homes and roadways throughout the city and county.

Read More: All the Things You Must See in Ouray Colorado

Reports of damage from throughout the county from the city of Ouray to Ridgway include flooding, mudslides, and rockfall. With more rain expected over the upcoming week, the Ouray County Emergency Operations Plan was activated on Wednesday (8/14).

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Monsoon Moisture In Ouray, Colorado

Ouray County, Colorado saw more than three inches of rain come down in just a matter of days. According to OurayNews.com, debris began building up quickly in Bridal Veil Creek at the North end of town which caused storm water to rush from the channel down into the town.

Flooding Washes Out Roads, Damages Homes

The Ouray County website issued a civic alert to report damage in multiple areas including Bridal Veil Bridge, Oak Creek, Skyrocket, and Federal Court. In Ridgway, there are reports of damage to the headgates that feed the Ridgway reservoir.

Travel Issues In Ouray County

KJCT8.com reports debris has affected routes commonly used by residents throughout the area such as County Road 17. CR17 has been closed due to damage from large amounts of debris, while mudslides and rockslides have also affected County Road 23 and County Road 361.

Residents who need to report damage to private property in Ouray County can do so by visiting this link. Residents should consider reporting information such as washed-out driveways, fallen trees, and any structural property damage.

UP NEXT: Colorado Hiking: Ouray's Amazing Perimeter Trail

To finish the six-mile loop around Ouray, Colorado on the Perimeter Trail is one of the best ways to experience hiking in Western Colorado. Scroll on to see some of our favorite views as we hiked the loop over the weekend.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

EAT: Enjoy an Awesome Dinner at Ouray Colorado's Best Restaurants

Ouray, Colorado is often referred to as the "outdoor recreation capital of Colorado." They have it all: hot springs, hiking trails, wildlife, wildflowers, waterfalls, and an absolutely incredible Main Street.

If you visit Ouray, you'll definitely want to make your way to town to visit one of its top restaurants. Fortunately, you won't have to walk far. Here's a look at the top 10 restaurants in Ouray, as ranked by Trip Advisor. Interestingly, each of the top 10 restaurants is located on Main Street in Ouray.

Gallery Credit: Waylon Jordan

LOOK: 25 Facts You May Not Have Known About Ouray's Amazing Hot Springs

Ouray's Hot Springs bubbled up along the Uncompahgre River from underground fissures for thousands of years before being known to the Ute Indians as the 'Miracle Waters'. Scroll through the photos below as we introduce 25 facts you may not have known about Ouray's famous springs.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

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