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For Immediate Release •
June 2, 2009
Staff Contact: Wes Lowrie, Water Resources Technician, 303-651-8376
View the most recent Press Releases.
Residents urged to be vigilant
JUNE 2, 2009 - Due to recent rainfall events within the Saint Vrain watershed, it is expected that significantly higher streamflow may occur in the Saint Vrain Creek running through the City of Longmont starting later this week.
River flows can increase dramatically and without warning. Flooding is the number one weather-related killer in the United States. Citizens are advised to not play in or near the Saint Vrain Creek, and especially not allow any pets or small children to do so. Due to the recent drought, it has been a number of years since there has been a significant streamflow through Longmont. This will make the rivers and creeks even more dangerous than normal as logs and other brush that have accumulated over the past few years break loose and become part of the flow.
Within the next 7-10 days it is expected that all area reservoirs will be full. Therefore, with the exception of area ditches diverting water for irrigation purposes, all snowmelt and future rainfall events will flow through Longmont via the Saint Vrain and Left Hand Creeks. Typically the peak run-off occurs during the first week of June, however, this can vary by two weeks or more depending primarily on temperature and rainfall.
Up to date Saint Vrain Creek streamflow information is available online at: http://www.dwr.state.co.us/SurfaceWater/data/district.aspx?div=1&dist=5
For additional information please call the Public Works & Natural Resources Department at 303-651-8376.
The City Open Space Rangers will be patrolling the St. Vrain and Left Hand greenways to monitor the streamflows on the two creeks. If the water level inundates the greenway, certain portions of the greenway will be closed.
Check the City Web site at www.ci.longmont.co.us for additional information on greenway closures and stream conditions.
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