A powerful spring storm is sweeping across Colorado, bringing intense snow to the mountains and steady rain to the plains, disrupting travel plans and boosting much-needed moisture in drought-affected areas.
Heavy snow slams Pikes Peak and mountain ranges
The most striking forecast detail is the expected 50 inches (127 cm) of snow on Pikes Peak by Thursday morning. This kind of accumulation is massive even by Colorado’s spring standards. Other high-altitude regions such as the San Juan Mountains, Sangre de Cristo Range, Sawatch Range, and Front Range Mountains are also in line for substantial snow totals, particularly above 7,500 feet.
Towns including Conifer, Aspen Park, and Bailey are projected to receive 6 to 12 inches (15–30 cm) of wet, heavy snow, while Woodland Park and Divide could see 10 to 15 inches (25–38 cm). Meanwhile, the I-70 corridor, especially from Georgetown to the Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels, could be buried under 14 to 20 inches (35–51 cm), triggering significant travel disruptions.
Denver and the foothills brace for soaking rain
Rainfall is also a major concern for the Denver metro area and the surrounding foothills. Between Monday and Wednesday, residents can expect 1 to 3 inches (25–76 mm) of rain. This soaking precipitation is crucial for the region, which has been grappling with moderate to severe drought conditions.
A brief overnight lull is forecast from late Monday into early Tuesday, but persistent showers will return by 8–9 AM Tuesday, drenching the plains throughout the day and into Wednesday evening.
Altitude makes all the difference
This is a classic Colorado spring system, where elevation plays a critical role. Just a few hundred feet of vertical change can mean the difference between a cold rain and over a foot of snow. Areas near or just above 10,000 feet will remain in the snow zone, while regions just below may face slushy conditions.
Travel chaos expected through midweek
By Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, conditions on mountain roads will be treacherous. Loveland Pass, Berthoud Pass, and sections of I-70 will likely face delays, closures, and dangerous travel, especially during the Wednesday morning commute.
If you’re heading into the high country, expect rapidly changing conditions, heavy snowpack, and visibility reductions due to the ongoing storm.
