A significant spring snowstorm is set to bring up to 24 inches of snow to Colorado and Wyoming, impacting travel and potentially causing power outages. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that winter storm warnings have been issued for both states.
The storm is expected to start late Monday evening and continue through Wednesday. Heavy snowfall is most likely from late Tuesday through Wednesday morning. Travel could be very difficult to impossible at times, especially late Tuesday.
Key snowfall forecasts:
- Up to 24 inches of snow in higher elevations.
- Three to 9 inches of snow could fall in Denver and areas west of I-25.
- 8 to 16 inches projected for Interstate 80 between Cheyenne and Laramie.
Fort Collins is forecast to receive 1.9 inches of precipitation, which exceeds the total precipitation the city has received this year. The NWS has also issued a winter storm watch for Fort Collins and the northern Interstate 25 corridor.
The NWS cautioned, “Heavy snow will accumulate on tree branches and powerlines, possibly causing them to break and lead to power outages.” This situation raises concerns about travel impacts in the northern mountains, with a 90 percent chance of at least minor disruptions expected.
Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops and damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Residents should prepare for possible power outages as crews from Xcel Energy are on standby with 165 employees ready for deployment.