SALIDA, COLO. -- The first major snowstorm of the 2010-2011 season has finally hit Colorado.
Snow was confined to the high country, where areas along the continental divide picked up over a foot of heavy, wet snowfall accumulation. The wet snow makes for a sturdy, stable base, so ski resorts are pleased with the snowfall.
While the usual resorts have already minimally opened, others are waiting for more snow to fall. Monarch mountain is dependant solely on natural snow, so it will take more snow to be able to open runs. Monarch plans on opening by the Thanksgiving holiday. Updated reports on resort opening days and status are available at Colorado Ski Country.
The late October storm also forced roads to be closed or chain restrictions along parts of the divide, including I-70 for a time and Loveland pass. The Colorado plains, however, only saw brief light rain and strong winds.
Gov. Ritter has also declared this week Winter Weather Preparedness Week. For more information on how to stay safe this season, visit the National Weather Service's website.