Denver Braces for Major Snowstorm: Up to 18 Inches Expected
The Denver area is preparing for a significant snowstorm, with up to 18 inches of snow expected to fall in the region. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the area, which will be in effect from Wednesday at noon until Friday morning.
According to Weather.com meteorologist Chris Dolce, the heaviest snowfall is anticipated in the foothills west of downtown and in the Palmer Divide south of the city. However, the metro area could still see 6 to 12 inches of snow.
The weather service has warned that travel could be very difficult to impossible due to the predicted snow-covered roads. They have advised residents to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in their vehicles in case of an emergency.
In addition to travel disruptions, the wet and heavy snow may also result in power outages and downed trees, especially in areas where a foot or more of snow accumulates.
The snowstorm is also expected to impact Denver International Airport, with potential cancellations and delays on both Wednesday and Thursday.
It is not unusual for Denver to experience significant snowfall in March. According to Dolce, March is one of the snowiest months of the year in the Rockies. In fact, Thursday marks the three-year anniversary of Denver’s last official double-digit snowstorm, when 19.9 inches of snow fell in the city, making it the snowiest March day on record.
As the Denver area prepares for the impending snowstorm, residents are urged to take necessary precautions and stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and advisories.“`html
Denver Braces for Major Snowstorm, Winter Storm Warning Issued
Weather.com meteorologist Chris Dolce said, “as for Denver, the heaviest totals will be in the foothills west of downtown and in the Palmer Divide south of the city, but the metro area has the potential to see 6 to 12 inches of snowfall.”
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Denver area, which goes into effect Wednesday at noon and lasts until Friday morning. Due to the predicted snow-covered roads, “travel could be very difficult to impossible,” the weather service said. A Tuesday map from the weather service says the region could see 12-18 inches of snow.
“If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency,” the weather service advised.
In addition, “the snow from this storm is expected to be wet, heavy and clingy, which may result in power outages and down trees, especially in areas where a foot or more snow accumulates,” Duff warned.
The snowstorm might also affect the major hub of Denver International Airport, as cancellations and delays could occur on both Wednesday and Thursday.
March snow not unusual in Denver
Dolce said that March is one of the snowiest months of the year in the Rockies: ”March is either the snowiest or second-snowiest month of the year for many locations in eastern Colorado, northern New Mexico, Wyoming and parts of neighboring states, according to Alaska-based climatologist Brian Brettschneider.”
Thursday is also the three-year anniversary of Denver’s last official double-digit snowstorm, according to a 9NEWS Weather report. On that date in 2021, 19.9 inches of snow fell in Denver, the weather service said, which was the city’s snowiest March day on record.
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Denver Public Schools announced that all schools and administrative offices will be closed on Wednesday due to the impending snowstorm.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock said the city is preparing for the storm and urged residents to avoid travel if possible.
“We are closely monitoring this storm and taking all necessary precautions to keep our streets clear and residents safe,” Hancock said in a statement. “We encourage everyone to be prepared and avoid travel if possible. Please check on your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or may need assistance.”
The storm is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds, leading to hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages.
Residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the storm.
