Large-scale emergencies are not new to Larimer County.
One of the worst disasters in Colorado History was the Big Thompson Flood of 1976 that killed 144 people and destroyed 418 homes, along with 52 businesses and major roadways, including Highway 34. On September 9, 2013, Colorado experienced severe rains over a five day period and a slow moving storm similar to the one in 1976, resulting in heavy rains and catastrophic flooding. In total, over 17 inches of rain fell in 5 days. This was equivalent to a year's worth of rain. In Larimer County 1,120 square miles were affected by flooding, 2 people lost their lives, 47 homes and 7 businesses were destroyed and another 321 homes and 25 businesses were damaged.
Over the years, flooding has remained a concern throughout the county due to steep canyons, populations along rivers and a large tourist population frequenting Larimer County’s many waterways.
