Northern Colorado Flood Threat

With the heavy rains and thunderstorms predicted for the next couple of days along with the heavy snow pack, I thought it would be fitting to re-post this, which includes some basic safety tips. Please give it a read and stay safe.

I have great concerns about serious flooding in the coming months and for good reason. This year's mountain snow pack is reported to be double normal levels. Couple that with warm temperatures, and if we were to see significant lingering thunderstorms we have a potentially dangerous mix.

Kevin Duggan in The Coloradoan is reporting:

Water content in snowpack measured at Joe Wright Reservoir near the top of Poudre Canyon is almost twice what it was last year, when portions of the Poudre River Trail were submerged during the height of the runoff.

The snow/water equivalent at the site is 10 inches above what it was in 1983, the last time Fort Collins saw significant damage from high water along the Poudre.

Here are some safety measures you should be taking in advance of any potential flooding

Fort Collins officials are urging residents and businesses near the Poudre River to take steps now:

» Remove, store or tie down floatable materials, such as lumber, drums and propane tanks.

» Develop a specific emergency response plan and discuss it with your family or employees.

» Consider purchasing flood insurance, which carries a 30-day wait period before coverage starts.

» Do not attempt to wade or tube in the river during high flows.

» Do not attempt to cross flooded paths or roads.

The Colorado Division Of Emergency Management Provides these tips:

What to do in case of a flash flood....
There many be no time for a warning to be issued. You may have only seconds to escape. It could be a life-and-death decision for you and your family. If you suspect a flash flood is about to happen immediately climb to higher ground.

Avoid walking through any flood waters. If it is moving swiftly, even water 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

If in a car....
If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to move stalled vehicles.

Remember, it does not have to be raining for a flash flood to occur. Some of the most dangerous floods originate many miles away.