LOVELAND, Colo., June 19, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via PRWEB - The Bureau of Reclamation is increasing releases to 5,300 cfs today from Pueblo Dam to ensure there is enough floodwater storage in the reservoir. An additional increase of 500 cfs is anticipated for tomorrow.
The reservoir water elevation is currently rising at an average rate of 1foot per day, and these releases will make more room in the reservoir for the potential future flood water inflows.
"More than 35,000 acre-feet of flood water is currently stored at Pueblo Reservoir," said Eastern Colorado Area Manager, Jaci Gould. "Due to snowmelt, recent local precipitation and upstream reservoirs passing native water, inflows to Pueblo Reservoir are exceeding outflows. Reclamation needs to create space for potentially much higher water inflows."
All facilities are safe and performing efficiently. Rising water levels can be expected in the river downstream that may result in lowland flooding. Adjacent landowners should take appropriate precautions for property in lowland areas.
"Releases will be adjusted daily, or more often, as inflows and precipitation events dictate," said Gould. "We will continue working with the Corps and Colorado DWR to monitor the inflows and water releases and to evaluate potential impacts downstream in concurrence with Reclamation's protocol and procedures."
Safety Tips:
- When driving, always be aware that the road bed under flood waters may be severely damaged. Never drive through flooded roadways. Remember that it takes only two feet of water to carry away a vehicle, including pickups and SUVs.
- If your vehicle stalls, get out immediately and go to higher ground.
- Be extra cautious at night, when it is harder to see possible flood dangers.
- These four words could save your life: Turn around, don't drown.
Reclamation is coordinating these flood control operations with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Colorado Division of Water Resources.
Contact Patience Hurley for additional information at 701.426.5392, or phurley(at)usbr(dot)gov.
Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at http://www.usbr.gov
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