Spring storms and heat create dangerous conditions on lakes and trails
CHATFIELD RESERVOIR, Colo. (KDVR) — Rain and high winds across the metro area affected thousands in the metro area over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
Flooding caused a traffic backup on northbound Interstate 25 just north of Arapahoe Road on Sunday. Chatfield Reservoir and other lakes sat empty as storms passed through Colorado.
Supercell forms 3 tornadoes in Colorado Friday, including an EF-2: NWS
Some at Chatfield Reservoir braved the rain, choosing to enjoy some fishing.
'It feels fun, it's relaxing just hearing the rain hit on the umbrella,' said Ava Williams.
The Powells joined others at the marina who camped out in their boats during the storm.
'We just curl up in the boat and enjoy it, watch the weather come in,' said Mrs. Powell.
There are 4,000 lakes and reservoirs in Colorado. Colorado Parks and Wildlife warns that heavy spring rain combined with snowmelt caused by warmer temperatures can cause dangerous conditions everywhere as water levels quickly rise.
'It's a little scary,' said Williams.
CPW encourages anyone planning to enjoy the outdoors to schedule trips based on information from weather reports and pack proper gear.
'I've got some rain gear on just to keep you dry, you know, as long as you're prepared, in Colorado, you can go out and do whatever,' said one visitor.
Melting snowpacks on mountain peaks also create muddy trails, extremely cold water in creeks, lakes and reservoirs, as well as stronger currents.
FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar
Colorado was ranked 4th in the nation for dangerous boating in 2024. CPW says life jackets are required for minors, including those who are paddleboarding and participating in other water sports. Life jackets can also help to maintain core body temperature in colder temperatures in the case of an emergency.
Additional rain can increase the growth of plants and weeds, which, after drying out, can increase the risk of wildfires. CPW says residents and visitors should be careful to follow fire safety guidelines and prevent the misuse of flammable materials or anything that can cause sparks, like allowing metal to drag from the bottom of vehicles.
CPW offers information for those planning to visit Colorado 2025 Quick Guide to State Parks Colorado State Parks Guide.Camping reservations at Colorado state parks are required. Find park events and classes on the CPW Events Calendar. Download the free COTREX app to find trailheads and trail maps.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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