Colorado Braces for Dramatic Weather Shift: Mountains to Face Blizzard Conditions, Plains High Fire Danger
Colorado is poised for a significant weather event this Tuesday and Wednesday, with starkly contrasting conditions expected across the state. While the mountains brace for blizzard-like conditions and heavy snowfall, the plains will face elevated grass fire danger due to strong winds and dry air. The 9NEWS Weather Impact Team is closely monitoring the situation, with a potential Weather Impact Alert in effect for Tuesday.
Mountain Blizzard Warning: Travel Impacts Expected
A potent storm system, described as an “atmospheric river type of storm setup,” is forecast to bring 3-18 inches of snow to the Colorado mountains between Tuesday morning and Wednesday night. Isolated areas, particularly on high mountain passes and peaks, could see up to a foot of accumulation. These snow showers will be accompanied by wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph, creating near-zero visibility in snow squalls and blizzard-like conditions.
Travel in the mountains will be particularly hazardous, especially Tuesday morning and night, and again on Wednesday morning. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution and consider postponing non-essential travel.
Plains Fire Weather: Red Flag Conditions Possible
While the western half of the state is preparing for snow, the eastern plains will experience a dramatically different scenario. Colorado’s geography will contribute to down-sloping dry winds, leading to low humidity and strong gusts. This combination creates a heightened risk of grass fires.
Wind gusts of 20-40 mph are expected along the Front Range, with stronger gusts – up to 60 mph – possible in the foothills, the base of the foothills, the Palmer Divide, and the northeast plains. The most extreme winds, potentially reaching 85 mph, are anticipated in the Sangre de Cristo Range and could extend onto the southeast plains.
Understanding the Atmospheric River Impact
An atmospheric river is a concentrated band of moisture in the atmosphere. In Colorado, these systems typically cause a split in weather impacts. The state is caught between high pressure to the south and low pressure to the northwest, creating a westerly to southwesterly airflow. This airflow pulls moisture from the Pacific Ocean and directs it towards the mountains, resulting in frequent snow showers. Simultaneously, the eastern plains experience dry, down-sloping winds.
Future Trends: Atmospheric Rivers and Colorado Weather
The increasing frequency and intensity of atmospheric rivers are a growing concern linked to climate change. While atmospheric rivers have always been a part of Colorado’s weather patterns, research suggests they are becoming more common and delivering more extreme precipitation. This trend has several implications for the state:
- Increased Flood Risk: More intense precipitation events can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to flash flooding, particularly in mountainous areas and along rivers.
- Snowpack Variability: Atmospheric rivers can contribute to significant snowpack accumulation, but also to rain-on-snow events, which can accelerate snowmelt and increase flood risk.
- Fire Weather Patterns: The contrasting conditions created by atmospheric rivers – heavy precipitation in the mountains and dry, windy conditions on the plains – can exacerbate both flood and fire hazards within the same timeframe.
Colorado’s unique topography amplifies these effects, making it crucial to improve forecasting capabilities and implement proactive mitigation strategies.
FAQ
Q: What is an atmospheric river?
A: An atmospheric river is a concentrated band of moisture in the atmosphere, capable of delivering significant precipitation.
Q: How much snow is expected in the mountains?
A: 3-18 inches of snow is forecast, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to a foot.
Q: What is the fire danger on the plains?
A: Strong winds and low humidity create elevated grass fire danger.
Q: Will the Front Range be affected?
A: The Front Range will likely experience 20-40 mph wind gusts, increasing fire danger.
Did you know? Atmospheric rivers are responsible for approximately 30-50% of the annual precipitation in many western states, including Colorado.
Pro Tip: Before traveling, always check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions at Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).
Stay informed about this evolving weather situation and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Share this information with friends and family to help them prepare as well.
