See the full-size map, hosted online by FEMA" src="http://media.graytvinc.com/images/waldo+canyon+fire+flooding+map.jpg" class="img-polaroid " />

See the full-size map, hosted online by FEMA

Planners with the City of Colorado Springs Emergency Management team are cooperating with FEMA to develop plans to mitigate the threat of flash flooding in Colorado Springs neighborhoods.

The risk of flooding or mudslides is heightened in neighborhoods of the city bordering the Waldo Canyon Fire burn scar. The fire significantly changed the landscape, burning away vegetation that one held the soil together and soaked up rain. The heat from the fire also baked the soil, making it harder.

“We’re approaching the height of thunderstorm season here in Colorado,” KKTV11News Chief Meteorologist Brian Bledsoe said, “It’s basically the equivalent of pouring a big ‘ol glass of water right on your tabletop. It just goes everywhere.”

Mayor Steve Bach says the residents living in flood-prone areas need to be prepared. The City and FEMA have created a map to indicate and explain the areas facing the biggest threat. Areas of heightened concern are near North Douglas Creek, South Douglas Creek, Camp Creek, Dry Creek, Fountain Creek, Williams Canyon, Ute Pass, Highway 24 and Majestic Park.

“This is different than a fire,” Mayor Bach said. “A flash flood requires people to get to higher ground. You don’t want to move sideways or downhill. You want to move uphill if you can.”

Residents in areas now prone to flooding or mudslides should create a plan to get their families to higher ground, including a 72-hour kit in case of a prolonged evacuation. Additionally, most homeowners’ insurance does not cover flooding but information on obtaining that coverage is available at FloodSmart.gov.

11News will provide updates about the results of the city’s planning with FEMA. We've also created a special page on KKTV.com to collect flooding information.