New map gives clearer picture of flood waters in flood zones

The City’s Emergency Management Office and El Paso County released a new map offering more specific details of floodwater potential in flood zones.

The city’s Emergency Management Coordinator, Ken Hughlett,said Wednesday the map gives residence the opportunity to see potential flooding in their area and adjust their flood plans accordingly.

The map gives estimates of how high flood waters might reach in certain areas. It also takes into account debris that could buildup along coverts. It would create a dam and push floodwaters into surround neighborhoods.

The analysis was based on 1.5 inches of rainfall per hour.

“This is based on really good estimates and really good analysis of potential flooding,” said Ken Hughlett.

Hughlett said the water could push large amounts of debris down its path causing a lot of destruction.

Homeowner Jan Weston was fearful of floods after listening to speakers at flood preparation meetings. She lives along 31st Street that’s specified as a high-risk area for flooding in the wake of the Waldo Canyon.

She said she felt some relief after looking at the new map.

“I thought that the new map was a little more specific. Yes, we’re going to get it. It’s going to come through half of our driveway,” said Weston. “It’s a better shot at where to put the sandbags on our property. It’s clear we’ve got water that will gush into the garage.”

She lined her driveway with sandbags. She said it’s not enough sandbags; she was told the sandbag walls need to be 4 feet high. She said thanks to the new map, she will make more specific arrangements.

Here is a link to the newest map on the city’s website:

http://gis.springsgov.com/flash-flood/