High water in Coal Creek Canyon west of metro Denver has overflowed its banks and was spilling across Colorado 72, prompting state transportation officials to close eastbound lanes and the National Weather Service to issue alerts.

The Coal Creek flooding was creating problems along the highway between Cattle Tail Road and Crescent Park Drive, from Mile Point 17 to Mile Point 18, Colorado Department of Transportation officials said.

Westbound lanes remain open but motorists are advised to avoid the area.