Colorado Mountains to Receive Heavy Snow with Second Storm Approaching
Parts of Colorado’s mountainous regions are set to receive substantial snowfall, with forecasts predicting over a foot of snow starting Friday. A new winter storm is approaching, which is expected to bring much-needed precipitation following a drier stretch in early December.
Weather Alerts and Forecasts
A winter weather advisory is currently in effect until 5 p.m. Friday for the Park Range and the northern Front Range. Meteorologists anticipate that these regions will experience the highest snow totals, with predictions of:
- Up to 9 inches in the Park Range.
- Up to 7 inches along the northern Front Range.
The National Weather Service’s Boulder office emphasizes that this storm raises avalanche risks and may disrupt travel during the busy holiday weekend.
Recent Weather Trends
According to Bruno Rodriguez, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service, December has been unusually warm, with many areas experiencing higher temperatures than normal. Notably:
- Akron recorded its warmest December, with a record 13 days of temperatures above 60 degrees.
- Denver concluded the month as its second-warmest December, despite some cold snaps.
- Dillon also reported its second-warmest December, marking a historical first with a low temperature above freezing.
Upcoming Storms
A second storm is projected to impact the region starting Monday, potentially extending into Tuesday. This event could add several more inches of snow to the same areas, including the Interstate 70 corridor.
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) warns that this additional snowfall could significantly elevate avalanche danger. They advise backcountry travelers to stay updated on avalanche conditions, particularly in the Elk and West Elk mountains, where the risk is heightened.
Avalanche Risks
The CAIC classified the avalanche risk as “considerable” in the Park Range area north of Steamboat Springs. Travelers in backcountry regions are cautioned that new snow can trigger avalanches, emphasizing safety precautions:
- Check the avalanche forecast regularly.
- Avoid steep slopes overhead, particularly when other parties are present.
Travel Considerations
Travelers should anticipate strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph, which can reduce visibility due to blowing snow. The Colorado Department of Transportation has enacted traction laws on many mountain roads, requiring:
- Mud or snow tires, or
- Chains or alternative traction devices, or
- Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive capability.
Weather conditions indicate that while the snowfall may aid in replenishing low snowpack levels, awareness and caution are essential for those venturing into Colorado’s mountainous regions this holiday weekend.
