Denver, Colorado experienced record rainfall on Wednesday, followed by a transition to snowfall in the early hours of Thursday morning. The snowy conditions are expected to persist throughout the day, with heavier snowfall anticipated later on. CBS Colorado has issued a First Alert Weather Day and a Winter Storm Warning in effect until 6 a.m. on Friday.
Significant snowfall has already been reported in the foothills, with Eldora Ski Area receiving 30 inches of snow and nearby Nederland reporting 26 inches by 6 a.m. Thursday. While the heavy snow may be attractive to winter sports enthusiasts, travel in the high country is strongly discouraged and likely impossible in many areas until early Friday.
In the metro area, snowfall rates could reach over 1 inch per hour as the heavier snow returns on Thursday afternoon. Additional snowfall amounts are projected to range between 8 and 12 inches for neighborhoods in and around Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Broomfield, Boulder, and Longmont. There will be a significant drop in snow accumulation going north and east, with less than 6 inches expected for areas like Fort Collins, Brighton, and the DIA corridor.
Denver International Airport had yet to measure any snow as of Thursday morning, but this is expected to change soon. Travel conditions will become extremely challenging in Douglas County and parts of Jefferson County, with an additional 10-15 inches of snow expected through Friday morning. Mountainous areas above 6,500 feet are forecasted to receive even more snow.
Despite the substantial snowfall, the storm is occurring far from the impacted areas, resulting in minimal wind factors. While gusts of up to 35 mph are possible, blizzard conditions are not expected. Once the snow subsides on Friday, dry and cool conditions are expected to prevail through the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
The prolonged wintry weather is sure to impact travel, with caution advised for residents in the affected regions. Stay updated on weather warnings and road conditions in Colorado to ensure safety during this snowy period.