How A Chuck Pyle Song Captured The Terror Of Big Thompson’s Floodwaters

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Editor's note: On the anniversary of the Big Thompson floods, we're remembering this song by the late folk singer Chuck Pyle.

In 1976, a wall of water tore through Big Thompson Canyon, killing more than 140 people. The song focuses on Sgt. Hugh Purdy, a patrolman who was one of the victims. Purdy died trying to alert others to the coming torrent, and his final words were broadcast over Citizens Band radio. Pyle performed his song "Here Comes the Water," in the CPR studio. He spoke with Colorado Matters host Ryan Warner about the song.

Click below to see a video of Chuck Pyle performing the song in CPR's performance studio.

Click here for a photo memorializing Sergeant Hugh Purdy.