DENVER – Residents of the Denver metro area, who previously missed the prior winter storm, are eagerly anticipating their first taste of snow on Wednesday. The forecast indicates a potential for moderate to heavy snowfall throughout Colorado’s mountainous regions and eastern plains, promising a picturesque winter scene.
“The Denver area is eagerly preparing for its inaugural snowfall of the season. While we aren’t expecting a significant accumulation, a light dusting on the grass would certainly brighten up the morning,” said Denver7 meteorologist Danielle Grant. “A cold front is anticipated to move through around 8 p.m., and initial rain showers will swiftly transition to snow. We expect the snowfall to gradually increase overnight, continuing into tomorrow morning.”
Weather predictions indicate that moderate snowfall will blanket Colorado’s Front Range mountains, including the foothills and extending into the eastern plains, where a winter storm warning is set to take effect until 5 p.m. Wednesday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Boulder has projected that areas affected by the winter storm warning, including Castle Rock and Parker, could see snowfall accumulations ranging from 5 to 10 inches.
Counties included in the winter storm warning are as follows:
- Elbert County (elevation above 6,000 feet)
- Central and Eastern Douglas County (elevation above 6,000 feet)
- Northern and northeastern Elbert County (elevation below 6,000 feet)
- Northern Lincoln County
Other affected communities under the warning encompass Agate, Kiowa, Matheson, Elbert, Larkspur, Limon, Fondis, and Hugo, according to NWS forecasts. Forecasters have cautioned that uncertainties remain high regarding the storm’s impacts.
STORM TIMELINE
Snow bands are expected to persist into Tuesday evening across Colorado’s mountainous terrain, while light rain showers may linger in the Denver metro area and urban corridor.
“By 10 p.m. Tuesday, we anticipate a full transition to snow across the entire urban corridor and extending into the eastern plains,” Grant elaborated. “By 7 a.m. tomorrow, we should wake up to a lovely winter wonderland in Denver. Though snowfall may not be heavy, it will certainly evoke a wintry atmosphere.”
Winter weather advisories are also in effect until Wednesday for much of Colorado’s mountainous regions, with expected snowfall accumulations of up to 10 inches. Additionally, wind gusts could reach 35 to 40 miles per hour, leading to snow drifts and challenging travel conditions.
The NWS added that the heaviest snowfall is anticipated to occur between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Denver has activated its Cold Weather Shelter activation, which started on Monday, and will remain operational through Friday at 11 a.m. to accommodate individuals facing frigid temperatures.
The Department of Housing Stability is providing round-the-clock shelter provisions at the Stone Creek facility (located at the former Best Western hotel), as well as at city accommodations located at 2601 W. 7th Ave. and 375 S. Zuni St. Several additional access points are expanding their capacities:
- For individual men – Denver Rescue Mission Lawrence Street Community Center, 2222 Lawrence St.
- For individual women – Samaritan House, 2301 Lawrence St.
- For youth ages 15-20 – Urban Peak, 1630 S. Acoma St.
- Families seeking shelter can contact the Connection Center at 303-295-3366
Although this early winter surge won’t linger, just a few lingering flurries may remain in Denver’s forecast by Wednesday afternoon. The morning commute is likely to be a bit slick, as temperatures will struggle to climb above the low to mid-30s – remaining in the chilly 20s to 30s throughout the mountain areas.
On Thursday, some sporadic flurries could still be seen in Denver before conditions clear by Friday, with expectations for mostly cloudy skies and a high of 45 degrees.
This weekend in Denver will bring clearer and milder weather, peaking at 53 degrees, while nightly temperatures will continue to drop below freezing. Come Sunday, the high temperature could approach 60 degrees, offering plenty of sunshine before afternoon highs settle into the upper 50s early next week.
Danielle Grant Miss Universe
**Interview with Danielle Grant, Meteorologist at Denver7**
**Editor**: Good morning, Danielle! It sounds like we’re finally going to experience our first snowfall of the season here in Denver. What can residents expect in terms of timing and accumulation?
**Danielle Grant**: Good morning! Yes, it looks like the wait is over! We anticipate a cold front moving in around 8 p.m. this evening. Rain will transition to snow quickly, and we expect snowfall to pick up overnight and continue into Wednesday morning. Most areas in the metro could see light accumulations, anywhere from a dusting to 1 to 6 inches, depending on the location.
**Editor**: That sounds promising! Could you elaborate on the winter storm warning? Which areas are most likely to see significant snowfall?
**Danielle Grant**: Certainly! The NWS has issued a winter storm warning for regions like Castle Rock and Parker, where snowfall accumulations could reach between 5 to 10 inches. Areas at higher elevations, particularly in Elbert and Douglas Counties, should definitely prepare for heavier snowfall, and driving conditions may be challenging due to wind gusts reaching 35 to 40 mph.
**Editor**: With the forecast indicating sustained snowfall, how do you recommend residents prepare for the weather?
**Danielle Grant**: It’s important for residents to stay informed and plan accordingly. If you must travel, consider leaving early in the morning when conditions might be more manageable, and definitely be cautious of slippery roads. Keeping extra supplies in your car, such as blankets, water, and snacks, is always a good idea. Also, take a moment to enjoy the lovely winter wonderland – it’ll be a gorgeous sight!
**Editor**: Absolutely! What should we expect for the rest of the week after this storm passes?
**Danielle Grant**: After this initial storm, we may see drier conditions moving in. However, winter in Colorado can be unpredictable, so I recommend keeping an eye on future forecasts. Enjoy this first snowfall, and let’s embrace the winter season ahead!
**Editor**: Thank you, Danielle! We can’t wait to see the beautiful snow blanket the city. Stay warm!
