Colorado Mountains Brace for New Year’s Snow, Warmth Follows

UPDATE: Colorado’s mountains are set to receive fresh snowfall as New Year’s Day approaches, but warmer temperatures will quickly follow, impacting snow conditions. This snowfall is expected to begin around 11 a.m. across the mountain regions, with some areas potentially seeing rain as early as 5 a.m., according to the National Weather Service.

The anticipated snow and rain will affect key resorts from Steamboat Springs to Aspen, yet the warm system raises concerns about snowpack viability. As the state transitions back to typical winter weather, the forecast indicates that snowfall could last through late Friday morning, but totals will be limited.

Following a weekend storm that delivered between 1-12 inches of snow, conditions across the mountains have improved slightly. However, the upcoming storm is expected to bring only 1-6 inches more, which experts say won’t significantly impact the already low snowpack levels. Joel Gratz, meteorologist at OpenSnow, notes that while the storm will bring moisture, its weak energy and warm temperatures will limit snowfall effectiveness.

In a stark reminder of Colorado’s fluctuating winter conditions, Wednesday will see temperatures soaring to highs in the mid-40s to mid-50s in central mountain towns, with northern areas reaching the high-30s to low-40s. This trend marks a concerning pattern as temperatures remain around 10 degrees above normal, as reported by Erin Walter, a hydrologist at the National Weather Service.

The potential for rain mixed with snow raises alarms for the snowpack, which is currently at the third percentile of average levels—between 50-70%—according to data from the United States Department of Agriculture. Walter emphasizes, “To start seeing some rain on our snowpack this early on, it’s certainly not ideal.”

Despite the upcoming storm, the long-term forecast hints at potential improvements, with additional snowfall opportunities projected around January 5, January 7, and between January 9-11. As conditions remain precarious, Gratz reassures that multiple chances for snow in the upcoming days could alter the situation positively.

Currently, the overall snowpack remains well below normal, impacting the terrain open for skiing. Resorts like Wolf Creek, Silverton, Monarch, and Ski Cooper are among those with the most terrain available, although overall options are limited due to low snowfall levels this season.

As Colorado’s mountains experience these dynamic weather changes, residents and visitors should stay informed about conditions and prepare for the warm weather that will follow New Year’s snowfall. The coming days will be crucial for determining the future of the winter season in the Rockies.