The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is asking drivers statewide to prepare for a shift in weather as monsoonal moisture moves into Colorado. Storms are expected to peak Wednesday and Thursday and raise flash flood risk over burn scars from this summer’s wildfires

There will be a risk of flash flooding, mudslides, and elevated travel hazards. 

A Flash Flood Watch is in effect. Flash floods present a severe danger on state highways, where fast-moving water, debris, and rockfalls can quickly wash out roads and/or wash debris onto the roadway. Recent wildfire burn scars could quickly transform heavy rain into dangerous flash flooding and debris flows.   

Areas of particular concern include state highways near the Ferris and Gold Mountain fire burn scars, where vegetation loss increases the likelihood of sudden debris flows during and after heavy rain. CDOT crews are monitoring these corridors closely and are prepared to close roads on short notice if conditions become unsafe.

Safety reminders for motorists

  • “Turn around, don’t drown.” Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways or standing water. Just 12 inches of rushing water can carry away a small car, and the road surface beneath may be completely washed away.
  • Beware of burn scars and canyon roads. Rain falling miles away can trigger rapid mudslides or rockfalls downhill without warning. If you see mud, rocks, or water flowing onto the highway, stop or safely pull over before reaching the flow area.
  • Reduce speed and turn on headlights. Maintain extra stopping distance between vehicles. Hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 35 mph on wet pavement.
  • Avoid cruise control. Using cruise control on wet or slick pavement makes it harder to react to a sudden loss of traction.
  • Avoid stopping under overpasses or unstable slopes. If trapped by rising water or a debris slide, stay inside your vehicle if it is safe to do so, or move immediately to higher ground if water begins entering the cabin.
  • Watch for lightning at higher elevations. Pull over safely if visibility drops sharply during a storm.

Preparation:

  • Check COTrip: Check COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner app before heading out for real-time road conditions, closures and alerts. 
  • Summer driving information: For vehicle safety checklists and flash flood safety driving tips, visit www.codot.gov/summerdriving.
  • Monitor weather warnings: Pay close attention to National Weather Service Flash Flood Watches and Warnings along your planned route.
  • Pack an emergency vehicle kit: Prepare an emergency vehicle kit: Pack extra water, food, flashlights, first-aid supplies, and charged mobile devices in case of extended highway delays or detours.
  • Respect road closures: Allow extra travel time, and if a route is closed, do not drive around barricades. Closures are in place for driver safety.