Sediment Fills Fast-Running Boulder Creek

BOULDER, Colo. (CBS4) - Boulder officials are reminding residents and visitors to be cautious in the wake of Wednesday night's strong storms and the potential for more.

The water levels on Boulder Creek and Fourmile Creek are exceptionally high, and officials sent a warning out Thursday about the muddy color of the water.

Officials said the cloudiness and discoloration of the water flowing down the creek is a sign of increased bacteria levels. The debris from the Fourmile Fire burn area was contributing to the creek's muddy appearance.

Officials said it's important not to drink water in the creeks. However, they said the city's treated drinking supply won't be affected, even if it appears more cloudy or discolored.

"Treatment plants for drinking water are designed to remove sediment and disinfect the water against pathogens, so the cloudy stream is not a concern for tap water. The City of Boulder does not draw any of its drinking water from these creeks," officials wrote.

So far Boulder Creek remains open but officials said those going in the creek to cool down should look out for branches or other debris which might be washing down the waterway.

Late Wednesday night officials sent out warnings that Boulder Creek might flood and some evacuations were being considered. Sirens were activated to warn residents of the flooding and to stay out of low lying areas. Emergency crews stacked sandbags in some spots downtown next to the creek as a precautionary measure.

There wound up being two separate surges with the late night thunderstorms but luckily water levels didn't rise high enough to cause major problems.

CBS4 meteorologist Jennifer Zeppelin reported that Thursday afternoon and evening will bring more strong storms, and there is heightened concern that there could be another surge in the creek.

LINK: Boulder Emergency Management website

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