News
N. Colo. prepares for flooding with melting snow
Posted: May 6, 2011 10:33 AM by Gene Cotton
Updated: May 6, 2011 10:35 AM
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - Residents of northern Colorado are preparing themselves for potential flooding as expected warmer weather begins to melt the state's record snow levels.
The Steamboat Pilot & Today reported Thursday Routt County officials have been watching streams and tributaries flowing through towns. They say blockages in stream flow could lead to flash flooding.
Several businesses along the Yampa River, a fire station and the wastewater treatment plant are all within the potential floodplain.
Officials say the potential for flooding is higher than it's been in recent history. Federal authorities have been reporting "unbelievable" snow levels across the northern mountains, with snowpack northeast of Steamboat Springs measuring more than 200 inches deep.
County officials say they're offering free sandbags to residents with a history of flood mitigation.
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