The National Weather Service has announced a flash flood warning for El Paso County and surrounding areas through Thursday evening.

A severe thunderstorm warning has grown to include a flash flood warning as the storm moves into southern Colorado. There is a projected 1.5 inches to 2 inches of rainfall within an hour falling on the southern end of Colorado Springs, Fort Carson, Fountain and Security-Widefield, according to the NWS.

“All storms will bring the threat of dangerous lightning to our forecast today, so remember that if thunder roars, head indoors,” KOAA Meteorologist Alan Rose said. 

The Pikes Peak region has experienced higher rainfall than usual in recent weeks. A portion of North Cheyenne Cañon Park was closed Wednesday after rain washed out a “significant” section of the roadway.

Colorado Springs storm-water manager Tim Biolchini said this week that North Cheyenne Creek was running at its highest level in about 10 years, contributing to the severe erosion undercutting the roadway — which remains closed Thursday.

In a Thursday update, the city said that Gold Camp Road would also remain closed to the public but is accessible to residents who reside in the area.

The closure also serves a safety precaution for the public to alleviate congestion on the narrow, steep road since this road now becomes the only way in and out of North Cheyenne Cañon.

The US Forest Service Pikes Peak Ranger District announced Thursday afternoon that the nearby Seven Bridges trail in North Cheyenne Cañon was also closed, due to flooding.

A high-wind and penny-sized hail warning was also given by the NWS at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, for the area around Florence and Stone City in Fremont County.

Thunderstorms will carry into the weekend.

Friday: 80% chance of thunderstorms with increasing intensity throughout the day and into the night. The high will be around 69 degrees, with a nighttime low of 48.

Saturday: A sunny day with 20% chance of thunderstorms in the evening. The high will be around 79, with a nighttime low of 51.

Sunday: A sunny day with 40% chance of thunderstorms in the evening and nighttime. The high will be around 79, with a nighttime low of 52.