FLOODING CAN BE A MAJOR PROBLEM IN COLORADO
In Colorado there are two distinct types of flooding. When the snow begins to melt in the high country rivers begin to rise. Flooding along rivers and streams can occur with a very rapid snow melt or from thunderstorm rains combining with the runoff from melting snow.The other type of flooding, flash flooding, refers to a dangerous sudden rise in water along a creek, wash, river or over a normally dry land area. Flash floods result from heavy rainfall, sudden breaks in river ice jams and dam or levee failures. Flash floods can occur within a few minutes or hours and can move at surprisingly high speeds, striking with little warning. Flash floods are quite destructive because of the force of the moving water and the debris that accumulates in flood waters such as trees and boulders which can destroy roadways, bridges and buildings.
In recent years we have seen serious flooding when heavy rain falls on recently burned areas. Residents in and near burned areas in the front range foothills and near Mancos and DeBeque should plan ahead on response actions for flooding.
The National Weather Service will discuss flood and flash flood potential in daily hazardous weather outlooks and in the weather story on National Weather Service websites. On days with a high threat for flooding you may hear a flash flood or flood watch which means that flash flooding or flooding is possible within the watch area.
A flood warning, which means that flooding is imminent or has been reported along a river. A flash flood warning which means that flash flooding has been reported or is imminent. When a flash flood warning is issued for your area act quickly. If advised to evacuate do so immediately. Go to higher ground or climb to safety before access is cut off by flood waters.
Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are vehicle related. Do not enter a flooded roadway instead turn around. Do not drown. In rapidly rising waters, backing up away from water may be safer. One to two feet of water will carry away most vehicles and you also cannot tell if the road is damaged beneath the water.
Colorado Wildfire and Flood Safety Awareness Week continues through this Saturday.
This article was provided by the Colorado National Weather Service.
