Strong spring storm targets the Front Range and Rockies
Colorado is bracing for a potent spring storm system that’s delivering a mix of heavy rain and snow across much of the state during the first week of May. A Pinpoint Weather Alert Day has been declared for Tuesday, as meteorologists anticipate significant rainfall along the Front Range and moderate to heavy snowfall in the foothills and mountains.
Denver stays wet, not white
While Denver is not expected to receive snow, the city will likely pick up close to 0.7 inches of rain — a substantial daily total, given that May’s monthly average is just 2.16 inches. This storm could bring half of that in a single day, helping the Mile High City close a rainfall deficit that had grown to 0.93 inches since January.
If temperatures were colder, the current rain would be equivalent to nearly 10 inches of snow, underscoring the intensity of this moisture-rich system.
Rainfall totals across the region
Forecast models show localized rain totals surpassing an inch in several locations by Wednesday night:
Estes Park, Georgetown, Conifer, and Castle Rock are each forecast to receive 1.2 inches of rain, while Monument Hill may collect around 1.1 inches. Parker (0.8 inches) and Boulder (0.7 inches) will also see measurable rainfall. Limon, out on the eastern plains, is expected to tally about 0.7 inches as well.
Snow takes over in higher elevations
While lower elevations will be wet, the mountains and foothills are turning white. Dillon, in particular, could see as much as 6 inches of snow, and western Colorado will also receive widespread snow showers through Tuesday night.
Meteorologist Travis Michels emphasized that, while this is a decent amount of daily rainfall, it’s not extreme for May, a month known for its volatile weather patterns. For perspective, the record rainfall for May 6 in Denver is 3.27 inches, far above current predictions.
