High Risk Colorado  ·  Wildfire / Flash Flooding

Larimer County CO

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

7/ 10
Threat Score
Population
356
Area
2,601
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Wildfire / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
8
federally declared

Larimer County anchored by Fort Collins and home to Colorado State University faces serious wildfire and flash flooding risk. The Cameron Peak Fire in 2020 was the largest wildfire in Colorado history burning over 200000 acres. The 1976 Big Thompson Canyon flash flood killed 144 people in one of the deadliest flash floods in Colorado history. The county sits in a moderate tornado corridor. CSU's 33000 students create institutional emergency planning requirements.

// 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 7 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Wildfire / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Tornado
FEMA Flood Zone High
Federally Declared Disasters 8
Last Major Event Cameron Peak Fire 2020
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (970) 498-5100
Emergency Shelters 12 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-25 US-34 CO-14 CO-287

// County Profile

County Larimer County CO
State Colorado (CO)
Population 356
Area 2,601 sq miles
FEMA Region High

// Major Cities

Loveland CO Fort Collins CO

// Cities in This County

// Other Colorado Counties