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Prior Alerts, Now Resolved
Flash flood warning May 18
The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Flash Flood Warning for East Central Larimer County in north central Colorado until 4:30 p.m. today, May 18.
At 1:23 p.m., Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Up to 0.5 inches of rain has fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.5 to 1.5 inches in 1 hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.
Excessive rainfall over the burn scar may result in debris flows moving through Buckhorn Creek. The debris flow can consist of rock, mud, vegetation and other loose materials.
Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.
Some locations that will experience flash flooding include mainly rural areas of East Central Larimer County. This includes the following additional locations: Upper Buckhorn along County Road 44H, Crystal Mountain, Stringtown Gulch, Big Bear, and Lower Buckhorn on County Road 27 above Masonville.
Update: Flood watch extended to 5 p.m., Friday May 12
Update at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 12: The National Weather Service has extended a flood watch for north central Larimer County until 5 p.m. Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.
“Doppler radar indicated long duration moderate to heavy rain due to showers. This is causing urban and small stream flooding. Overflowing poor drainage areas have already caused minor flooding in the advisory area. Rain will decrease later this morning although the water will remain high through the afternoon,” according to the NWS bulletin.
Original message:
The National Weather Services is advising the of potential for numerous strong to severe storms are possible Wednesday, May 10, in afternoon through the evening hours. These storms may have large hail and damaging winds exceeding 70 mph.
A flood watch is in effect from 6 a.m. Thursday, May 11, to noon Friday, May 12. Moderate to heavy rain is expected Thursday from a longer upslope storm. Portions of the northern I-25 corridor pose a risk for flooding. Avoid flooded areas. Do not attempt to drive flooded roads.
Burn scar areas below 9,000 feet are of particular concern. Rapid rainfall runoff over burned areas can cause flash flooding. Stay weather-ready if you are in or near an area affected by wildfire.
Parking enforcement continues along Plum Street
Earlier sunsets and winter conditions can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars. While sunset times change throughout the year, the university’s schedules do not, creating new challenges for driving on campus.
Plum Street is a busy thoroughfare with many utilizing drive lanes, bicycle lanes and pedestrian crosswalks. Cars parked in no parking zones create hazards and can unintentionally force cyclists into drive lanes, or obscure pedestrians cross the street.
To reduce the risk of an accident or the loss of life, CSU police will be more active in the area contacting motorists who are parked or idling in areas not designated for parking. Drivers could incur a Traffic Education and Enforcement Program (TEEP) citation if contacted for an infraction.
CSU’s Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries among all road users, and to ensure safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. It was put into place after a student pedestrian was killed on campus the first day of classes of the fall semester in 2019.
If you need to pick up or drop off someone, please use designated loading zones.
Fire weather warning for Fort Collins April 18
The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 11 a.m-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 18. Larimer County areas below 6,000 feet — including Fort Collins — are included in the warning.
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. Winds will be out of the southwest at 20-30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Humidity will be as low as 9 percent.
A combination of strong winds low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Avoid outdoor burning and any activities that may produce sparks.
Slick travel for morning commute today, April 4; Winter weather advisory in effect
Bands of moderate to heavy snow have spread across the I-25 corridor this morning, April 4, with slick travel conditions in spots. Snow will also continue across the northern mountains today with snow and blowing snow likely.
CSU crews have been and remain working to clear campus roads and sidewalks. Slick and slushy conditions due exist, so please use extra caution when traversing campus walkways and entering buildings.
Students who are unable to make it to classes today should contact their instructor to make alternative arrangements. Employees who cannot travel to a CSU campus for work today should contact their supervisor.
University closed due to weather conditions March 27
Colorado State University is closed and canceling all operations Monday, March 27. All in-person, hybrid and remote classes and operations (meetings, work functions) are closed or canceled for all Larimer County campuses.
For more information about weather related decisions and how they are communicated, see https://source.colostate.edu/university-guidelines-weather-closure/.
CSU employees with essential or emergency duties should coordinate with their supervisors or directors to determine their work status. These employees may include, but are not limited to, CSU Police, Facilities Management, Housing & Dining, Environmental Health Services, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Diagnostic Laboratories, and student-facing services.
The university closure generally extends to employees who are assigned to a Larimer County campus and who are working on site or remotely today; however employees who work remotely should refer to the teleworking policy at http://policylibrary.colostate.edu/policy.aspx?id=776 and their memorandums of understanding with their units for more information about their work obligations during a university closure. Remote employees with essential duties, for example, may be required to continue to work from their remote location.
Check www.safety.colostate.edu for updates on the status of operations at the university. Information also will be available on local media outlets and CSU’s social media networks.
Please watch local news outlets and local agency websites for information about travel and continue to avoid all travel while driving conditions are becoming dangerous. Unless you are required to be on a campus, please do not report to university grounds. Parked cars (other than those in designated residence hall lots) on campuses during and immediately after storms make it extremely difficult for Facilities Management crews to clear snow from parking lots and streets.
Thank you,
The Public Safety Team
Freezing drizzle, icy conditions on campus sidewalks, roads
Icy conditions caused by freezing drizzle overnight will impact travel to and on CSU’s Larimer County campuses today, March 7. Crews are working to treat sidewalks and roadways. Extra caution walking, biking and driving is advised. Some sidewalks could be very slick; use caution traversing campus.
Campus remains operating as usual. Any student not able to attend classes should contact their instructor. Any employee unable to perform work duties should contact their supervisors.
The National Weather Service as issued a winter weather advisory for Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins. Freezing drizzle, clouds and fog can be expected. Another round of freezing drizzle is possible this evening. Scattered snow could fall, but only light accumulation is expected.
Colorado State University open Feb. 23; Wind chill advisory in effect (Updated at 10 p.m., Feb. 22)
Colorado State University campuses are open and operational on Feb 23. Extremely cold temperatures are forecasted. A wind chill advisory is in effect with wind chills potentially reaching 15 degrees below zero to 25 degrees below zero.
Use caution while traveling outside and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure. Wear appropriate clothing and dress in multiple layers, including a hat, and gloves. If you have plumbing susceptible to freezing, open cabinets or allow a slow drip. Keep pets indoors, check on/protect livestock, and ensure an open water source.
CSU crews have been and remain working to clear campus roads and sidewalks. Icy conditions due exist, so please use extra caution when traversing campus walkways and entering buildings.
City of Fort Collins and Larimer County crews have been clearing roadways, focusing on major arterials. Extra caution while driving is advised.
Students who are unable to make it to classes today should contact their instructor to make alternative arrangements. Employees who cannot travel to a CSU campus for work today should contact their supervisor.
Normal daily operations; Exceptionally cold temperatures forecasted
Colorado State University is open for regular operations Monday, Jan. 30. Exceptionally cold temperatures will impact the region beginning Sunday, lasting through at least Tuesday, Jan. 31. Wind chill values may drop below -20 F in the plains on the coldest nights, according to the National Weather Service. Light snow may create periods of slick conditions in the plains Saturday evening through late Monday.
Use caution while traveling outside and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure. Wear appropriate clothing and dress in multiple layers, including a hat, and gloves. If you have plumbing susceptible to freezing, open cabinets or allow a slow drip. Keep pets indoors, check on/protect livestock, and ensure an open water source.
University closed due to weather conditions Jan 18
Colorado State University is closing and canceling all operations Wednesday, Jan. 18. All in-person, hybrid and remote classes and operations (meetings, work functions) are closed or canceled for all Larimer County campuses.
For more information about weather related decisions and how they are communicated, see https://source.colostate.edu/university-guidelines-weather-closure/.
CSU employees with essential or emergency duties should coordinate with their supervisors or directors to determine their work status. These employees may include, but are not limited to, CSU Police, Facilities Management, Housing & Dining, Environmental Health Services, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and Diagnostic Laboratories, and student-facing services.
The university closure generally extends to employees who are assigned to a Larimer County campus and who are working on site or remotely today; however employees who work remotely should refer to the teleworking policy at http://policylibrary.colostate.edu/policy.aspx?id=776 and their memorandums of understanding with their units for more information about their work obligations during a university closure. Remote employees with essential duties, for example, may be required to continue to work from their remote location.
Check www.safety.colostate.edu for updates on the status of operations at the university. Information also will be available on local media outlets and CSU’s social media networks.
Please watch local news outlets and local agency websites for information about travel and continue to avoid all travel while driving conditions are becoming dangerous. Unless you are required to be on a campus, please do not report to university grounds. Parked cars (other than those in designated residence hall lots) on campuses during and immediately after storms make it extremely difficult for Facilities Management crews to clear snow from parking lots and streets.
Thank you,
The Public Safety Team
Water main break impacting Shields Street traffic
Fort Collins Utility crews are currently repairing a water main break today, Jan. 17, near Shields Street and Springfield Drive.
Due to pipe locations underground, crews need access into Shields Street, and traffic will be impacted from Lake Street to Pitkin Street into the evening. The road is still open both ways with limited lanes.
Wind Chill Warning in effect Dec. 21 to Dec. 23 (Updated: 8 a.m., Dec 21)
The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Warning in effect from 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, through 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 23. Additionally, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 4 p.m. Thursday to 9 a.m. Friday.
Dangerously cold wind chills – down to 50 degrees below zero – are possible. The dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in less than 5 minutes.
Avoid outside activities if possible. When outside, wear appropriate clothing, including a hat and gloves.
A mass of cold air will remain over northeast Colorado through Sunday with temperatures staying below freezing, according to the NWS. Up to 3 inches of snow could accumulate Thursday into Friday.
Behind the arctic front, temperatures will plummet, dropping below zero on the plains Wednesday night and likely remaining near or below zero through the day Thursday and into Friday morning. Temperatures will gradually moderate this weekend.
CSU weather closure protocols are outlined in a Source article.
High Wind Warning for Dec. 1
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the I-25 corridor north of Fort Collins.
Winter Weather Advisory for Larimer County below 6,000 feet in effect from 11 p.m. yesterday to 2 p.m. today, Nov. 29.
Northwest winds 30-40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected, with the strongest winds north of Fort Collins. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Isolated power outages are possible.
CSU weather closure protocols are outlined in a Source article.
Winter Weather Advisory Nov. 28-29 (Update: 5 a.m., Nov. 29)
Colorado State University campuses in Larimer County are operating as normal today.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Larimer County below 6,000 feet in effect from 11 p.m. yesterday to 2 p.m. today, Nov. 29.
Total snow accumulation is expected to be between 3 and 8 inches. About 3 inches fell overnight. Roads are icy and snow packed and caution is advised while driving. CSU Facilities crews are clearing campus and some icy spots persist. Please use caution traversing campus.
Poudre School District and Thompson School District have announced two-hour delays in operations on Tuesday. Employees and students who are impacted by school district operation delays are asked to contact their supervisors or instructors to make arrangements.
CSU weather closure protocols are outlined in a Source article.
Colorado State University open Nov. 18; Use caution traveling
Colorado State University campuses are open and operational today, Nov. 18.
CSU crews have been and remain working to clear campus roads and sidewalks. Icy conditions due exist, so please use extra caution when traversing campus walkways and entering buildings.
City of Fort Collins and Larimer County crews have been clearing roadways, focusing on major arterials. Icy, snow-packed conditions are reported throughout the area and extra caution while driving is advised.
Students who are unable to make it to classes today should contact their instructor to make alternative arrangements. Employees who cannot travel to a CSU campus for work today should contact their supervisor.
Structure fire destroys one cabin at Colorado State University Mountain Campus
A structure fire destroyed a cabin at Colorado State University’s Mountain Campus on Friday, Oct. 28. One CSU employee suffered a burn injury and was treated at the scene.
The fire in Cabin 4 was reported at 11:45 a.m. and fire crews from Glacier View Fire Protection District, Poudre Canyon Fire Protection District, Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department and Red Feather Lakes Fire Protection District all responded. The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office and the Colorado State University Police Department also responded to the Mountain Campus. Cabin 4 is deemed to be a total loss.
The scene was cleared at 4:03 p.m. Cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
No students were on campus and the remaining employees are in the process of winterizing. There is no further risk to the Mountain Campus and surrounding area.
Test of emergency system on Wednesday, Sept. 28
This is a test of the CSU emergency email system. There currently is not an emergency on a campus.
During an emergency you may receive information through emails, text messages, online (www.safety.colostate.edu, the university’s primary information source about safety and safety issues, as well as www.source.colostate.edu), or through other communications.
Students may register for the university text alert system through RamWeb at http://www.ramweb.colostate.edu. Employees may register at https://aar.is.colostate.edu/. The university usually does not send emergency messages to students or employees unless there is a specific emergency within or very near the physical boundaries of a campus and the emergency is an unresolved, ongoing threat to the university community.
To learn more about the university’s emergency response procedures, visit www.safety.colostate.edu.
Thank you,
Colorado State University Public Safety Team
Bear reported on Main Campus
Sept. 16
10:30 a.m. – CSU All Clear: The Division of Wildlife has safely removed the bear without injury from the tree on the Oval. The bear will be relocated away from campus and the city.
8:27 a.m. – CSU Alert: CSUPD and Division of Wildlife are on scene with bear in a tree on north end of Oval near Ammons Hall. Do not go to that area to allow officials to calmly and safety remove the bear.
Gas leak reported in Durrell Center
August 31, 2022
9:22 p.m. CSU Alert: A gas leak has been reported in the Durrell Center. Building is evacuated. Stay out of the building until cleared by first responders. No injuries have been reported.
Sept 1, 5:45 a.m. CSU All Clear: Durrell Center gas leak is resolved. Durrell is open.
Aug. 24
Incident near Rec Center on Wednesday, Aug. 24
Colorado State University Police Department this morning responded to a call of a male who threatened two of our students with a knife near the Rec Center on Main Campus.
Students called police to report an incident between a male suspect, who is not a student or an employee, and two students. The suspect threatened the two students with a knife.
The male visitor asked a female student who was walking near the Rec Center for directions to another campus location, and then began yelling at her. The male suspect then approached the female student and grabbed her by the arm while continuing to yell at her. A bystander student intervened on her behalf. The suspect threatened the two students with a knife and walked away. The students were not injured.
The first 9-1-1 call came into CSUPD dispatch at 9:55 a.m., and officers were on scene at 9:58 a.m. With the help of students who had witnessed the altercation, officers quickly identified the suspect.
All CSUPD officers receive extensive, specialized training in de-escalation and crisis intervention training. Officers used those tactics to calm the suspect and arrested him without further incident.
No one was injured in the incident.
The suspect was arrested and charged with felony menacing, harassment and false imprisonment and was transported to the Larimer County Jail.
The students who were victims in this interaction were provided with information about resources to help them by CSU police officers.
“This was a serious situation and our officers want to thank all of the bystanders who helped our students targeted by this individual,” said Jay Callaghan, chief of police for CSUPD. “Today demonstrated that Rams taking care of each other can make a significant difference when someone is in danger. While this situation is not the norm on our campuses and was very unusual, the quick thinking of bystanders and the de-escalation skills used by our officers made a significant difference in the outcome of this incident.”
During the incident, other area police agencies and the Larimer County SWAT team were at Canvas Stadium for an annual walk through of the grounds before fall sports begin; their vehicles parked near the incident were unrelated to the police response to this threat.
July 28, 2022
Incident near Foothills Campus
All clear Aug. 2: Please see this press release from Larimer County Sheriff’s Office regarding the arrest of the suspect in the shooting near the Foothills Campus on July 28: https://www.larimer.gov/spotlights/2022/07/28/update-juvenile-wanted-attempted-murder.
Updated July 29, 9 a.m. – Larimer County Sheriff’s Office has issued an update on last night’s shooting near the Foothill Campus. Details, suspect photo and description: https://www.larimer.gov/spotlights/2022/07/28/juvenile-wanted-attempted-murder.
Update 6:05 p.m. – Larimer County Sheriff Dept has reopened Overland Trail. Police continue to monitor situation. More info will be provided if and when it becomes available.
Update – 5:40 p.m.: Larimer County Sheriff Office has informed CSUPD that the initial suspect description may not be accurate and a description is not known at this time.
CSU Alert: Larimer County Sheriff Department responding to shooting in a neighborhood near Overland Trail and Mulberry by the Foothills Campus. Suspect wearing black pants & black hoodie, believed to be armed. Call 911 if seen. Avoid area.
July 18, 2022
Courtesy warning regarding Fort Collins Police Services investigation
Dear students, faculty and staff,
To assist Fort Collins Police Services with an important ongoing investigation, we ask that you please see their press release (https://www.fcgov.com/news/?id=8291) regarding a man who has been arrested for trying to break into an off-campus apartment in Fort Collins.
Fort Collins police believe that he may have tried to break into other apartments in the past and are asking anyone who may have information or has experienced behavior similar to that outlined in the FCPS press release to contact them at 970-221-6540 extension 7.
Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings – you hear this often from police and other safety officials, but paying attention to where you are and what’s happening around you is critical to identifying if your safety is at risk.
- Keep your doors and windows locked and keep your curtains drawn.
- Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, get to a safe place and call or text 9-1-1 for help.
- Use CSUPD’s free SafeWalk service if you’re on a campus anytime from dusk until dawn and want a safe escort to your car or another location within in a three block radius of a campus. https://police.colostate.edu/safe-walk/
Resources:
- CSU student Victim’s Assistance Team is provided by the Women and Gender Advocacy Center, this team responds 24/7 to assault victims and their families and provides confidential support. Call 970-492-4242 and ask to speak with an advocate.
- Women and Gender Advocacy Center provides confidential resources to students including academic, medical, and emotional support. Call 970-491-6384 during business hours Monday-Friday.
- CSU Health Network provides confidential medical and emotional support services to students. Counseling Services: (970) 491-6053
- SAVA is a community resource for sexual assault survivors.
- The Employee Assistance Program provides mental health support to employees.
- To report concerns, contact the Office of Title IX Program and Gender Equity online at https://titleix.colostate.edu/, call (970) 491-1715 or email Titleix@colostate.edu.
Thank you,
The Public Safety Team
Heat Advisory – Friday, June 17
Dear staff, faculty and students,
As you may already be aware, much of the state is under a heat advisory today, which impacts our employees and students in offices and in the field across about half of Colorado. Temperatures will also be very warm today in areas not officially under the heat advisory. The heat advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. – and temperatures will stay high throughout the weekend.
- The Front Range is under a heat advisory today for the first time in 14 years. Temperatures along the Front Range today are forecast reach up to 102 degrees.
- The Eastern Plains will be even warmer, with temperatures near the Kansas boarder forecast to crawl up to 104 degrees.
In addition, smoke from wildfires in other states is expected to reach the Front Range area today, lowering air quality.
It is best to limit your outdoor activities today, if possible. Other safety tips include:
- Do not leave children, older adults, individuals with disabilities or animals in a parked car, even with windows down
- Stay hydrated and be sure pets and other animals also have plenty of water
- Pull window shades or blinds to keep indoor temperatures lower
- Consider checking in with others who cannot limit outdoor activities
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing
The Red Cross offers additional heat advisory tips for staying cool.
Signs that someone is overheated and may have heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale and clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness or weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Passing out
The Red Cross also offers advice for avoiding heat exhaustion and when to seek medical care for someone experiencing these symptoms. (Pets have similar signs but need specific care. See this 2019 article from CSU veterinary experts with tips still relevant for today’s heat – https://cvmbs.source.colostate.edu/never-leave-your-pet-in-a-hot-car/.)
Stay cool today, Rams, and remember that Rams take care of Rams.
The Public Safety Team
Information about the university’s response to COVID-19.
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
The CSU Emergency Text Alert System is used to send text alerts in the event of an emergency on the Colorado State University Fort Collins campus. The system is only used during an immediate, ongoing safety emergency or unexpected closing of the campus. Sign up now.
Report a Concern
- Emergencies: Call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Non-emergencies: Contact CSUPD (970) 491-6425.
- Tell Someone if you are concerned about a student or an employee’s mental health and safety.
Campus Safety Policy
Colorado State University will comply with all requirements of the Clery Act. This policy sets forth procedures intended to ensure Colorado State University’s ongoing compliance with the Clery Act’s crime and fire reporting and disclosure obligations.
University communications during an emergency
The university uses various communications vehicles during an emergency, and to communicate about general safety advice. More information.