Flood Facts
Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural hazards. Some floods develop slowly, but flash floods can happen in just minutes. Floodprone areas have been identified in 267 cities and towns and in all of the 64 counties in Colorado. Over 250,000 people are living in Colorado’s floodplains. There are estimated to be 65,000 homes and 15,000 commercial, industrial, and business structures in identified floodplains. There are likely many more structures located within unmapped flood hazard areas. The value of the property, structures, and contents located in the identified floodplains is estimated to be over 11 billion dollars (1996). Average annual flood losses in Colorado are estimated to be $17,600,000 in property damage based on data from 1896 to 1984. La Junta, Colorado, 1999 |
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Cumulative flood losses for the most damaging floods in Colorado between the turn of the century and 1993 include 331 people killed and $3.3 billion (1995 dollars) worth of property damage.
(Flood Facts provided by the Department of Natural Resources)
What you should know:
- Know your neighborhood flood history
- Consider purchasing flood insurance
- Stay alert for changing weather conditions
- Get out of areas subject to flooding like low spots, canyons, and areas downstream from dams
- Do not attempt to cross water that is above your knees
- Do not drive over a flooded road
- Abandon a stalled vehicle and immediately move to higher ground
Flash floods If a flash flood warning is issued, or you realize a flash flood is coming, act quickly to save lives. You may have only seconds! Move to high ground - do not attempt to outrun the flood. Even 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of two feet will float your car! NEVER try to walk, swim, or drive through such swift water. If you come upon flood waters, STOP! TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY. |
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For more information on flooding, try these links:
Department of Natural Resources / Colorado Water Conservation Board
National Flood Insurance Program
"Turn Around, Don't Drown" program from the National Weather Service (NWS)
The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
FEMA fact sheet on floods / flash floods preparedness information