GRAND JUNCTION - Flooding can be a major problem in Colorado, as we experienced in September 2013.
Heavy rain fell over a large area of the foothills south to the Pikes Peak Region, resulting in flash flooding. Much of the water that fell across northeast Colorado eventually ended up in the South Platte River, with major river flooding from Greeley to the state line.
River flooding can result from heavy rain during the summer and from rapid snow melt or thunderstorm rain combining with runoff from melting snow.
Flash flooding refers to a dangerous sudden rise in water in an urban area, in a canyon, or along a creek or wash 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.
Another complication in Colorado is the serious flooding that can result when heavy rain falls on recently burned areas. Anyone living downstream from a recently burned area should be aware of the changed conditions, which result in much faster, turbulent, debris and ash clogged waters from the burned area.
A flood warning means that flooding is imminent or has been reported along a river.
A flash flood warning 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. More information on flooding hazards can be found on the National Weather Service Flood Safety page at http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov/
