Colorado Snow Squalls Hit Denver Metro as Second Storm System Brings Heavier Snow South of I-25 Into Friday
COLORADO — Snowfall across the Front Range is entering a volatile phase as the region sits between two storm systems, with snow squalls already impacting the Denver metro and a second, stronger system expected to bring more widespread accumulation later tonight and into Friday.
Forecasters say the first storm, now east of Colorado, delivered much of the early snow and atmospheric instability. Attention is now turning to a second storm emerging from the Desert Southwest and Four Corners region, which is expected to deliver the bulk of accumulating snow over the next 24 hours.
Snow Squalls Create Sudden Whiteout Conditions
Scattered snow showers moving through the region are behaving like snow squalls, producing short-lived but intense bursts of heavy snow and gusty winds. These squalls can rapidly reduce visibility to near zero, creating dangerous driving conditions with little warning. Parts of the south Denver metro experienced these sudden conditions earlier, catching drivers off guard as road conditions deteriorated quickly despite relatively light radar coverage.
Heaviest Snow Focused South of Denver
Forecasters expect the greatest impacts south of Denver, including Teller County, El Paso County, southern Colorado, and areas down toward the Raton Mesa. These locations are likely to see more persistent snowfall as the second storm system fully moves in.
Mountain areas will continue to see snow through Friday, while locations farther north — particularly toward the Cheyenne Ridge — are expected to see less impressive totals, with more scattered and hit-or-miss snow showers.
Northern Front Range Sees Lower-End Snow Totals
Across the Northern Front Range and Northeast Plains, snowfall is expected to remain on the lower end. Many areas have already recorded at least a trace of snow, technically meeting forecast expectations, but additional accumulation is expected to be limited compared to southern zones. Snow in these northern areas is likely to remain intermittent rather than continuous, with breaks between passing showers.
Wet Roads Freezing After Sunset a Major Concern
One of the biggest concerns heading into tonight is the potential for wet roads to freeze after sunset as colder air pushes south behind a cold front. Even areas that do not receive significant snowfall could see rapid icing, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads. Drivers traveling later tonight or early Friday are urged to remain alert, reduce speeds, and allow extra time to reach their destinations.
More Updates Expected as Storm Evolves
Meteorologists say the forecast will continue to evolve as the second piece of energy moves in and the full storm system comes together. Additional updates are expected through the evening and overnight hours as snowfall trends become clearer. Have you encountered sudden snow squalls or icy roads today? Share your experience and stay connected with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continuing winter weather updates across Colorado.
