Coloradans are bracing for an abrupt end to the summer season as several inches of snow are expected to fall on Sunday. The National Weather Service has issued three winter weather advisories for the state, warning of up to 8 inches of snow until noon on Sunday. This marks a cold conclusion to summer, as fall officially begins on September 22. The heaviest snowfall is predicted in the Rocky Mountain National Park, Medicine Bow Range, Summit County Mountains, Mosquito Range, and Indian Peaks, particularly at higher elevations above 9,000 feet.
The NWS forecasted that the storm system arriving on Saturday afternoon will bring cooler air to the region, with higher elevations above 9,000 feet potentially receiving between 3-8 inches of snow through Sunday afternoon. Motorists are being advised to slow down and use caution when driving through the snowy conditions. Additionally, around 0.25 to 0.75 inches of rain is expected in most areas, with a 60-70 percent chance of rain in several cities in Colorado by 6 a.m. on Sunday. Temperatures are expected to reach around 59 degrees F on Sunday but will warm up throughout the week.
One of the weather advisories is specifically for Pikes Peak above 11,000 feet, where 2 to 5 inches of snow are expected until noon on Sunday. Another advisory covers the Western Mosquito Range, East Lake County Above, and Eastern Sawatch Mountains at elevations over 11,000 feet. The hazardous weather outlook for northwest, southwest, and west central Colorado indicates that light snow at pass level and above could lead to slick roads at higher elevations. Instability showers and a few thunderstorms are expected to redevelop in the afternoon.
Despite the cold start to fall in Colorado, temperatures are expected to gradually warm up as the week progresses. Highs of around 78 degrees F are forecasted for Monday, dropping to 72 degrees F on Tuesday. Slightly warmer weather is anticipated for Wednesday through Friday, with highs in the early 80s. While the abrupt shift to winter weather may catch some residents off guard, the state is preparing for the changing seasons and the potential impact of the snowfall on transportation and daily activities. It is a reminder that Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable and residents need to stay vigilant and adapt to the changing conditions.
