Moderate Risk Colorado  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Adams County CO

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
520
Area
1,183
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Adams County north of Denver is the most diverse county in Colorado and one of the fastest growing. The South Platte River creates flooding risk — the 2013 Colorado floods caused serious damage in Adams County communities. Denver International Airport is located in Adams County creating major aviation emergency planning requirements for one of the busiest airports in the United States. The county hosts major logistics and distribution facilities along the I-76 and I-270 corridors.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 6 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Wildfire
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event 2015 Flooding
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (720) 523-6480
Emergency Shelters 14 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-76 I-270 US-85 CO-2

// County Profile

County Adams County CO
State Colorado (CO)
Population 520
Area 1,183 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Commerce City CO Thornton CO Westminster CO

// Cities in This County

// Other Colorado Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

Buckley Space Force Base CO
Military Installation  ·  Aurora, CO  ·  US Space Force  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High
🏟
Denver International Airport CO
Stadium / Arena  ·  Denver, CO  ·  City of Denver  ·  15-mi risk zone
6/10 Moderate

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.