Fort Collins Utilities: Heed flood warnings issued for Larimer County

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for Larimer County, including Fort Collins until 9 p.m. tonight, May 9, due to a large storm expected this afternoon.

When used by the National Weather Service, the term “warning” means severe weather has been reported or is imminent, take precautions. Read more on the National Weather Service site, www.fcgov.com/national-weather-service.

The Poudre River was at 2,310 cubic feet per second (cfs) at 8:15 a.m. May 9. Rainfall is expected to continue through the evening. Because soils are saturated some creeks already are flowing at elevated levels, flooding potential is increased.

In addition, a winter storm warning is issued from Saturday evening through Sunday morning. Fort Collins is expecting heavy rain Saturday morning through early evening with rain turning to snow about 9 p.m. this evening; anticipated accumulations of 1-2 inches with the possibility of 3 inches in localized areas.

Never drive your vehicle into areas where the water covers the roadway. Floodwaters are often deeper than they appear. Just 1 foot of flowing water is powerful enough to sweep vehicles off the road. Do not drive through flood water.

Utilities Stormwater staff are monitoring and assessing the rainfall and flooding potential using the City’s flood warning system. Citizens can monitor rainfall and streamflow in Fort Collins, by viewing real-time gauge data at fcgov.com/floodwarningsystem. To report drainage problems, call 970-221-6700.

NOAA weather radios provide continuous updated weather information directly from the National Weather Service. Weather radios can be purchased at electronics and appliance stores. The following terms are commonly used by the National Weather Service:
Sign up at leta911.org to receive emergency notifications for Larimer County on landlines, cell phones, or as text or email messages. For more information, visit fcgov.com/floodwarningsystem.