COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- Some big changes in the weather will be coming our way this week!
After an extremely quiet weather period in the Centennial State, winter will make a brief but dramatic visit.
High pressure has kept warm temperatures and sunshine through most of October. The entire state has been virtually precipitation free for almost two weeks. But, after the quiet weather, the potential for a pretty decent snowstorm is on the way.
As is the case with all winter storms, it is very difficult to pinpoint exact details. However, starting late Tuesday, our first front will move through. This will drop temperatures and increase the clouds. We will be fairly dry at the surface, and I doubt we'll see enough of a moisture increase to warrant any decent rain chances yet. However, by the evening, there may be enough upslope flow to bring in a few showers, which will likely turn to snow overnight. By Wednesday morning, the combination of abundant moisture and arctic air will allow for the potential for widespread snow across Southern Colorado.
Right now, it appears the highest snowfall totals will occur over the Palmer Divide, Pikes Peak region, and Southern Mountain areas. Colorado Springs may see a few inches of snow, but as is the case with many snow storms, areas between Highways 24 and 50 will miss out of appreciable snowfall thanks to downslope winds off Monument Hill.
We will all see extremely cold conditions on Wednesday. Highs will stay at or below freezing, and winds will push wind chills around the single digits! Clouds will stick around as well.
Wednesday morning commute could be rough. The combination of rain/snow overnight with plunging temps may lead to snow-covered or even freezing roads. There won't be much improvement through Wednesday.
If skies clear and winds die down enough, we could hit record lows by Thursday morning. Expect the potential for temps dropping to the teens. However, a gradual warming trend takes over starting Thursday.
Keep in mind these snowstorms frequently fluctuate in terms of projected moisture availability and storm track. Always stay up to date with the forecast, and always be prepared!
Follow the latest weather developments on our weather page here.
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