Flash Flooding

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Flash Floods PSA

Flash Floods PSA

Flash flooding is the most common natural hazard in Colorado Springs. Flash floods tend to occur from May through September, and are usually caused by thunderstorms that are out of sight and hearing range of people downstream. Runoff from the mountains can quickly cause the water levels of small creeks and dry streambeds to rise to unsafe levels. These walls of water are fast moving and can easily reach heights of 10-20 feet. Know which streams and waterways are nearby, and where you are in relation to them. Learn More (video).

You should never attempt to cross an area that is flooding. It only takes 6 inches of fast moving water to knock you off your feet. Just 10 inches of moving water can move a car, and 18 inches can float your vehicle. Your best course of action is to immediately seek higher ground.

  • An urban and small stream advisory means that isolated flooding of streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.
  • A flash flood watch means that flash flooding is possible. Be alert and prepared to move to high ground. Watch for rising water levels or unusual street flooding is possible. Listen to local radio or television stations or Weather Service radio for possible flash flood warnings and bulletins. Locate a hand crank or battery powered radio and extra batteries.
  • A flash flood warning means that a flash flood is occurring or is about to occur. If necessary relocate immediately and seek high ground away from high risk areas and water. Do not attempt to cross moving water either on foot or in your vehicle.
If you see clogged inlets or other public drainage infrastructure problems, report it immediately.
  • Within Colorado Springs city limits contact the Public Works Operations and Maintenance Division by calling 719-385-ROAD
  • Outside of city limits contact the El Paso County Public Service Department at 719-520-6890

What to do before, during, and after flooding | Sign up for emergency alerts

Maps and additional Info

El Paso County FEMA Flood Zone Map

To see if your home or neighborhood is in a flood risk area, view the map below. Or, open the map in a new window.

Flash Flooding

This map will NOT save your life, property, or public health. Citizens must take personal responsibility for protecting their own safety during flash flood occurrences. Any property downstream of a burned area has risk . This product is intended for planning purposes only. Post-fire conditions have elevated the flood threat, including areas that are not yet mapped. Other low lying areas may be threatened. Please contact your insurance agent or visit www.floodSmart.gov to evaluate your insurance protection options. The post-fire BAER team (citation) has indicated that potential water and sediment flow from the burn area may have increased by 350%. This site will include additional information regarding post fire hazards as it becomes available.

Additional maps and other areas with heightened risk:

  • North Douglas Creek (second largest burn area with drainage flows to the City) -- drains to a channel running through subdivisions west and east of Centennial (originating near Pikeview Quarry, crossing under Flying W Ranch Road and Centennial Blvd, along Mule Deer Drive just west of Ute Valley Park), crossing Garden of the Gods Road near Elkton Drive and discharging to Monument Creek
  • South Douglas Creek -- drains to a channel next to Flying W Ranch Road, crossing Garden of the Gods Road at Arrows West Drive and heading east, past Centennial Blvd through Holland Park, and discharging to Monument Creek
  • Camp Creek/31st Street channels (largest burn area with drainage flows to the City) -- drains through Queens Canyon, through Glen Eyrie, Garden of the Gods, Rockledge Ranch and 31st Street channel, and discharging to Fountain Creek
  • Dry Creek through Peregrine and Rockrimmon, in a channel running through subdivisions, parallel and south of Woodmen Road, crossing under Rockrimmon Blvd, and discharging to Monument Creek
  • Fountain Creek beginning upstream of Manitou Springs then running through Colorado Springs next to Highway 24
  • Williams Canyon located west of Manitou Springs and north of Highway 24

  • Majestic Drive and Majestic Park

  • Ute Pass/US 24 (Additional flooding information for El Paso County, areas outside of City limits)

  • Ute Pass:  Cascade & Chipeta Park

  • Manitou Springs

  • Any moderately to heavily burned areas and areas downstream

Useful Links for Flood Information

Waldo Canyon burn scar

Waldo Canyon-After the Fire Flooding Risk Information

The recent Waldo Canyon Fire has significantly changed the landscape, presenting risk of debris flow and flooding. Hillsides once protected by vegetation have been compromised and precipitation could have significant impacts on the landscape. Residents both in the burned area and those downstream of those areas should be prepared for potential flooding and are strongly urged to purchase flood insurance.