As Thanksgiving approaches, Colorado is gearing up for a significant weather change. A pre-holiday snowstorm is set to bring snow and colder temperatures to the Denver metro area, with some heavy snowfall expected in the mountains. The 9NEWS Weather Impact Team has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Denver, highlighting the potential impact of the storm through Wednesday. In this article, we’ll dive into how much snow Denver could see, along with the mountain snow totals and a detailed forecast for the days leading up to Thanksgiving.
Weather Impact Day: What to Expect
Wednesday morning will bring the heaviest snow to Denver, particularly between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. As snow begins to fall, the roads could get slick, making your commute potentially hazardous. The Weather Impact Day warning highlights the risk of snow accumulation in the metro area, with totals of a few inches expected before the storm begins to taper off by noon. If you’re planning to head out early, be prepared for reduced visibility and slippery streets.
Details of the Snowstorm in Denver
The snowstorm, which is expected to hit Denver Wednesday morning, will bring light to moderate snowfall. Though snowfall totals may not be as high as in the mountains, there will still be a noticeable impact on daily activities. Snowfall is expected to start early in the morning and peak around 8 a.m., with the heaviest snow likely falling before 10 a.m. After that, it will be more sporadic, with snow tapering off by midday.
For those commuting, be aware that the roads could be hazardous during this time. Expect wet or slushy conditions as temperatures hover around the mid-30s, nearly 15 degrees below average. With temperatures staying low, snow will likely accumulate quickly, so driving conditions could deteriorate fast.
Colorado’s Mountain Snowstorm: Snowfall Totals
While Denver prepares for a few inches of snow, the mountains are in for a much heavier snowstorm. In Colorado’s central mountains, snowfall totals could approach 2 to 3 feet, particularly in areas like Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen. These mountains are expected to see the heaviest accumulation as the storm moves through.
For those planning to hit the slopes, conditions should be excellent, with fresh snow falling right before Thanksgiving. However, travelers heading to the mountains should be cautious of travel delays, as the snow could make for difficult driving conditions.
A Glimpse of Thanksgiving Day Weather
By Thanksgiving morning, the snowstorm will be in the rearview mirror for most of Colorado, but chilly and icy conditions will linger. Denver will experience mostly sunny skies, but temperatures will stay in the low 30s to mid-30s, so make sure to bundle up before heading out for any holiday activities. The roads will likely remain icy in the morning, especially with overnight temperatures expected to drop into the teens.
This means that while it might not snow on Thanksgiving Day, the lingering effects of the storm will make travel a little tricky. If you’re planning any turkey trots or outdoor celebrations, keep in mind that frost and ice could make sidewalks and roads slippery.
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Wednesday Night into Thursday: Cold and Icy Conditions
After the snowstorm ends, temperatures will plummet Wednesday night. Expect lows to dip into the single digits in the mountains and the teens across the Denver metro area. This sharp drop in temperature will freeze any snow that has accumulated on roads, creating icy patches for Thursday morning. If you’re heading out on Thanksgiving morning, be cautious of black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses.
The Rest of the Week’s Forecast
Once the snowstorm moves out, Colorado will experience a quieter weather pattern for the rest of the week. By Friday, temperatures are expected to rise into the 40s, with clear skies dominating the forecast for most of the weekend. Saturday will bring some wind, which could make the air feel chillier than it actually is.
Temperatures will continue to climb as the weekend progresses, with highs expected to reach the 50s by next week. With sunny skies and mostly clear conditions, it will be a nice break from the cold and snow.
How to Prepare for Denver’s Winter Weather
If you’re living in or traveling through Denver during the snowstorm, it’s important to take steps to prepare for the winter weather. Ensure your vehicle is ready for snow, with winter tires and a full gas tank. Also, check that your windshield wipers are working and that you have enough de-icer or antifreeze.
On the roads, drive slowly and leave extra space between vehicles to prevent accidents. If you’re walking outside, be mindful of icy sidewalks and stairs—wear shoes with good traction to avoid slipping.
Winter Safety Tips for Denver Residents
During snowstorms, it’s essential to stay safe. If you’re driving, avoid the roads if possible when snow is at its heaviest. If you have to go out, make sure you have an emergency kit in your car, including a flashlight, water, snacks, and a blanket.
For outdoor activities, dress in layers to stay warm. Hats, gloves, and scarves are a must when temperatures drop below freezing. Take breaks to avoid frostbite or hypothermia if you’re outside for extended periods.
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Conclusion
In summary, the pre-Thanksgiving snowstorm in Denver is expected to bring a few inches of snow to the metro area, with heavier snow accumulating in the central mountains. While conditions will be snowy and cold on Wednesday, the storm should move out by Thanksgiving Day, leaving behind icy roads and chilly temperatures. Prepare for some travel disruptions, but after the storm clears, Colorado will enjoy a period of milder, more seasonal weather.
FAQs
Will there be snow in Denver after Thanksgiving?
It’s unlikely. After the storm moves out, Denver will experience sunny skies and temperatures in the 40s and 50s.
How much snow will Colorado’s mountains receive?
The mountains could see 2 to 3 feet of snow, especially in central Colorado areas like Vail and Breckenridge.
How cold will it get in Denver after the snowstorm?
Temperatures will drop to the teens overnight Wednesday into Thursday, with highs in the low 30s to mid-30s on Thanksgiving Day.
Is it safe to travel during the snowstorm on Wednesday morning?
It’s best to avoid travel during the heaviest snow between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. If you must go out, drive cautiously and be prepared for slick roads.
What’s the forecast for Denver’s weather next week?
After the storm clears, Denver will experience milder temperatures in the 40s and 50s under mostly sunny skies.