(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.) — Manitou Springs city facilities are being evacuated after flash flood warnings were issued by the National Weather Service (NWS), and locals in flood prone areas are being urged to seek higher ground.

According to the City of Manitou Springs, the NWS Pueblo issued a Flash Flood Warning for west central El Paso County, including the City of Manitou Springs, in effect from 2:19 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16.

As of 2:19 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rainfall in the warned area, with one to two inches of rain already fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

Hazards include:

Flash flooding of small creeks and streams

Urban flooding in streets, highways, and underpasses

Mudslides in steep terrain involving rock, mud, vegetation, and debris

Due to rapidly rising water levels in Fountain Creek, the following City facilities are evacuated and closed until further notice:

Manitou Springs Pool & Fitness Center

Manitou Springs City Hall

Parking and Mobility Offices at 400 Manitou Ave.

All community members in flood-prone areas are urged to seek higher ground immediately and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Turn around, don’t drown.