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Cooler Weather and Snow Forecast for Colorado
Cooler weather is moving into Colorado, bringing rain to Denver and the possibility of snow in the mountains. This follows a warmer period a...
8 months ago
WeatherColorado Weather
Colorado Weather Update: Mountain Snow Continues, Potential Weekend Storm Brewing
about 1 year agoUS
Colorado is experiencing an active spring weather pattern, bringing significant snowfall to the mountains and mixed precipitation to lower elevations like Denver and Fort Collins. Forecasters are tracking continued moisture through the week, including the potential for a more significant storm system over the coming weekend.
Key Insights
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Heavy Mountain Snow:: Several mountain ranges, including the San Juans and Park Range, are under a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 a.m. Wednesday. Some areas could see up to 2 feet of snow, with significant accumulations (4-19+ inches depending on location) expected on major passes like Berthoud, Loveland, Rabbit Ears, and Vail Pass.
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Lower Elevation Precipitation:: Denver and Fort Collins are expecting spotty rain showers, potentially mixing with snow, especially during overnight hours Tuesday into Wednesday. Little to no snow accumulation is anticipated in these metro areas from this initial system.
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Hazardous Travel:: Strong winds gusting up to 50 mph in the mountains will create blowing snow and potential white-out conditions, making travel dangerous, particularly on high passes.
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Weekend Storm Potential:: Weather models indicate the possibility of a potent storm developing from Friday through Sunday across Colorado, including the I-25 corridor. Details remain uncertain, and residents should monitor forecasts.
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Snowpack Status:: While recent precipitation has helped (Fort Collins saw 0.84 inches of rain Saturday), areas like Fort Collins remain below average for seasonal precipitation and snowfall. However, the crucial South Platte River Basin snowpack (serving Denver/Fort Collins) was at 100% of average as of March 31st, though the statewide average is lower at 85%.
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Why this matters:: The ongoing mountain snow impacts travel and boosts the water supply via snowpack. The potential weekend storm could significantly affect travel and activities across a wider area.
In-Depth Analysis
The current weather system began impacting Colorado overnight into Tuesday, April 1st, with areas like Red Mountain Pass already reporting several inches of snow. The heaviest snowfall is expected through Wednesday morning in the mountains covered by the Winter Weather Advisory (Jackson, Grand, Larimer, Boulder, Gilpin, Clear Creek, Summit, and Park counties).
Denver's forecast calls for spotty shower chances and a gradual cooling trend to start April, with rain likely Tuesday afternoon/evening, possibly mixing with or changing to snow overnight with minimal accumulation. Fort Collins also anticipates a mix of rain and snow Tuesday, with chances decreasing overnight.
Beyond Wednesday, unsettled weather continues. There's a chance for more rain and snow showers across the state Wednesday evening, Thursday afternoon, and again from Friday afternoon into Saturday morning. Eyes are particularly on the weekend (Friday-Sunday) as forecast models suggest a potentially stronger storm system could develop. The exact track, timing, and intensity are still unclear, but it could bring significant moisture (rain and/or snow) to the Front Range and plains.
This active pattern follows a March that was notably dry for some areas; Denver recorded its eighth least snowy March. While Fort Collins received beneficial rain recently, its seasonal precipitation (since Sept 1) is still well below average (3.94" vs 6.08" avg), as is its snowfall (22" vs 43.6" avg). However, the healthy snowpack in the South Platte basin is a positive sign for water resources heading into the warmer months.
FAQs
How much snow is expected in the mountains?
Accumulations vary, but totals could reach up to 2 feet in localized areas by Wednesday morning. Major passes like Berthoud and Loveland could see 4-13 inches, Rabbit Ears Pass 6-16 inches, and Vail Pass 6-13 inches.
Will Denver or Fort Collins get significant snow from this first system?
No, forecasters expect little to no snow accumulation in Denver or Fort Collins through Wednesday morning. Precipitation will mainly be rain or a rain/snow mix.
What are the main travel impacts?
Hazardous driving conditions exist in the mountains due to heavy snow and strong winds causing low visibility. Check road conditions before traveling, especially on high passes.
What's the forecast for the weekend?
There is potential for a significant storm system across Colorado Friday through Sunday, but details are uncertain. Stay updated with the latest forecasts.
Key Takeaways
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Check Conditions:: Before traveling, especially in the mountains, check the latest road conditions and forecasts. Resources like COtrip.org provide real-time updates.
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Prepare for Variety:: Spring weather in Colorado is notoriously variable. Be prepared for rain, snow, and wind throughout the week.
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Stay Informed:: Keep an eye on weather updates, particularly regarding the potential storm system for the upcoming weekend (Friday-Sunday), as it could impact plans.
Discussion
How is this spring weather affecting your plans? Do you think the weekend storm will materialize? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
*Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!*
Sources & References
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