April 2026
Spring is here!
Spring on campus means sunshine . . . and increased flood risk
Spring in Colorado can be unpredictable, one minute it’s sunny; the next we’ve got heavy rain and melting snow all at once. That combo can increase the risk of flooding right here on the Auraria Campus.
Because we’re located near the South Platte River and Cherry Creek, we’re more vulnerable than you might think. Even with flood-control systems in place, quick, intense storms and snowmelt can still lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas around campus.
What’s the deal with spring flooding?
Melting mountain snow raises water levels in nearby rivers and creeks
Heavy rain can overwhelm storm drains (yes, even in a city)
Wet, saturated ground means water has nowhere to go, so it pools fast
What that means for you:
Basements and lower levels (where a lot of labs and tech live) are at higher risk
Flash floods can pop up quickly and block walkways or routes around campus
Classes, events, or campus services could be delayed or canceled
Why this matters:
Flooding isn’t just inconvenient; it can be dangerous. Fast-moving water can be hard to see at night or during storms, and even shallow flooding can cause slips, falls, or worse.
Quick tips to stay safe:
Keep an eye on the weather (especially during storms)
Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, seriously, don’t risk it
Follow campus alerts and instructions if something changes
If you see flooding, report it so it can be handled quickly
We’re not trying to stress you out, just keep you in the loop. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping yourself and others safe.
Stay dry out there!
The Emergency Management Team