Flood Protection

By Bob Keenan/ Principal Planner

The potential for flooding in the City of Steamboat Springs is due to fluctuating water flow within the Yampa River Basin. Most of the annual precipitation in the Yampa River Basin occurs as snow culminating in a deep snowpack in the high elevations, which we’ve seen a lot of this winter! However, rainstorms covering large areas for extended periods can occur in the region from late spring through early fall.

Major flooding events have been the result of snowmelt augmented by rain in spring or early summer. The highest runoff on record was due to heavy rain falling on a melting snowpack. It is important to note that, in western Colorado, major flood producing rainstorms almost always occur during September and October.

The named drainage areas of the Yampa River Basin include the Yampa River, Soda Creek, Butcherknife Creek, Spring Creek, Fish Creek, Walton Creek and Burgess Creek. Other unnamed drainages may be just as susceptible to flooding.

If you have a building within the special flood hazard area or a regulated floodplain, the odds are that someday it will be affected by flooding. Even a building that is not located in a mapped floodplain may still be susceptible to flooding.

City Flood Services: One of the first things to check is your flood hazard. Flood maps and flood protection references are available at the Bud Werner Memorial Library or through the Planning Dept, which can provide additional data, such as depth of flooding over a building’s first floor and past flood problems.

The city also processes and maintains records of elevation certificates, required for both new residential construction and substantial improvements to an existing residential unit that is located within a special flood hazard area.

Flood Insurance: It is recommended that property owners purchase flood insurance even for property owned outside of the special flood hazard area. If you do not have flood insurance, talk to your insurance agent. Under federal law, flood insurance is mandatory for all federal or federally related financial assistance and mortgages within the special flood hazard area.

Homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage from floods; however, because Steamboat Springs participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, a separate flood insurance policy may be purchased.

Floodproofing: There are ways to protect a building from flood damage. One is to keep the water away by re-grading or building a floodwall/berm. Another approach is to make your walls waterproof and place watertight closures over the doorways. Many houses, even those not in the floodplain, have sewers that back up into the basement during heavy rains. A plug or standpipe can stop this if the water doesn’t get more than 1-2 feet deep. The city also available to assist property owners with advice on how to protect their property from flooding.

What You Can Do

• Don’t dump/throw anything in ditches/streams

• Keep banks clear of brush and debris

• Report dumping in waterways to Public Works

• Contact the Regional Building Dept before building, altering or regrading property

• Check prior to any improvements or maintenance of any river, creek or drainage as permit may be required

• Observe building or filling without permit sign posted, contact the city

Water levels will surely rise this spring from the abundant snowpack that has accumulated over the winter. The question is just how high and are you ready for when it comes to your property. For more information, visit steamboatsprings.net/floodplain or floodsmart.gov/community

Flood Safety

Weather Reports

Stay alert by monitoring the local news/weather reports and sign up for emergency alerts. Have a communication plan ready in the event of a power outage.

Be Prepared to Evacuate

It’s best to determine your safest evacuation route in advance.

Don’t Walk In Flowing Water

Drowning is the #1 cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods. Currents can be deceptive; 6” of moving water can knock you off your feet.

Don’t Drive In Flooded Area

More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around barriers; the road/bridge may be washed out. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!

Keep Children Out of Water

They often lack judgment about running or contaminated water.

Keep Power/Electric Lines Clear

The #2 flood killer is electrocution. Electrical currents can travel through water. Report downed power lines.

Turn off Electricity

Some appliances keep electrical charges even after being unplugged. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet.

Look Out for Animals

Animals flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn things over and scare away small animals.

Look Before You Step

After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be slippery.

Be Alert for Gas Leaks

Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flame unless the gas has been turned off.

For those who live here and for those who wish they did.