India, Nov. 1 -- Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for low-lying areas of Pagosa Springs and Archuleta County, Colorado, as officials warn that the San Juan River could rise to near-historic levels after another round of heavy rainfall. Authorities said the expected crest would rank among the highest ever recorded in the region.

The evacuation order covers areas along the Rio Blanco, San Juan, Navajo and Piedra rivers. The warning comes just one week after flooding washed out multiple roads across the county, leaving officials concerned that additional rainfall could worsen conditions.

Archuleta County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Vicki Shaffer said the San Juan River had already begun rising after rain moved through the are...