Fort Collins Utilities operates a Flood Warning System to notify the public and emergency services about:

  • real-time information on rainfall, stormwater run-off and weather conditions;
  • early detection of hazardous conditions.

The National Weather Service uses the data along with other information to issue flash-flood warnings and weather advisories. Data is collected at 54 gauge sites from 38 automatic rain gauges, 35 water-level gauges and five automatic weather stations. The stations automatically report data to computer base stations. If gauges exceed a set level, emergency management and utility personnel are notified. Learn more about the Flood Warning system design and integration.

Questions?

Report vandalism of Flood Warning System.

  • Vandals in progress - call Police Services at (970) 221-6540
  • Previous vandalism - call Utilities at (970) 221-6700.

History of the Flood Warning System

After the devastating July 28, 1997 flood, the City applied for money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Through a $250,000 grant, the City developed and installed the first stage of a comprehensive Flood Warning System. Gauges began operating in June 1999. In 2000, the system was significantly expanded using another $60,000 FEMA grant and allocations from the Fort Collins Utilities stormwater budget. The system had continued to expand and now includes partnerships with other City departments who use the data for various purposes.