Two Rounds of Snow Set to Hit Colorado as First System Brings Up to 6 Inches and Midweek Storm Could Reach a Foot in the Southwest Mountains
COLORADO – After an unusually warm early-season stretch, Colorado is now preparing for two separate snow systems, with the first arriving Sunday night into Monday and a stronger midweek storm that could bring up to a foot of snow in parts of the state. Ski areas and mountain communities are already anticipating the long-awaited pattern change.
First Snow System Arrives Sunday Night With Lighter Accumulations
Colorado’s warm spell has left most mountains bare except for man-made snow on ski slopes, but that will change as the first storm moves in late Sunday. Meteorologists expect under 6 inches of accumulation for most locations with this system, including areas around Keystone, Breckenridge, and Copper Mountain.
Forecast graphics show a band of snow developing across the central and northern mountains, with light to moderate snowfall expected through early Monday morning. While this first round will not be major, it marks the beginning of a more active pattern.
Midweek System Could Be Much Stronger With Significant Mountain Snow
The second system, expected midweek, is generating far more interest. Forecasters say southwestern Colorado could see close to a foot of snow, with areas such as Crested Butte, Vail, Telluride, and Durango highlighted for significant accumulation.
Model snow-cast graphics show possible totals of:
7 inches near Vail
10 inches at Crested Butte
4 to 7 inches across Beaver Creek, Aspen, and Snowmass
This stronger system appears to have a more favorable track, tapping into colder temperatures and better moisture.
Ski Areas Welcome the Incoming Pattern Change
Ski resorts including Arapahoe Basin, Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Breckenridge have been relying heavily on snowmaking to maintain early-season terrain. With natural snow finally returning, mountain operators expect conditions to improve noticeably through the week.
Visitors and locals have been enjoying warm afternoons at high elevations, but forecasters say those warmer days are ending as the pattern shifts toward a colder and wetter setup.
Much-Needed Snow and Water for Colorado’s Mountains
Colorado continues to struggle with low early-season snowpack, and meteorologists emphasize that both systems bring much-needed moisture. Snowfall plays a critical role in the state’s water supply heading into winter, making this week’s storms especially important.
Skiers, snowboarders, and mountain communities are calling the upcoming pattern change welcome news, especially as holiday travel and winter recreation pick up.
If you live in Colorado or plan to visit the mountains this week, how are you preparing for the incoming storms? Share your experience and stay updated with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continuing weather coverage.
