COLORADO SNOW REPORT
November 5 2024
Colorado's snow report reveals a diverse range of conditions across the state, catering to snow enthusiasts looking for fresh powder or concerned about the snowpack levels. Within the past 24 hours, areas like Apishapa have seen notable snowfall reaching 7 inches, whereas other locations such as Beartown have experienced no new snow but boast a substantial snowpack depth of 26 inches, which is the highest reported. In the coming five days, regions including Hayden Pass, Idarado, and Nohrsc Wager Gulch anticipate up to 9 inches of snow, promising conditions for winter sports activities.
Ski resorts near Aspen and Vail, close to locations like Independence Pass and McCoy Park, show moderate snowfall with depths ranging from 2 to 7 inches, potentially affecting ski conditions. The ski industry hubs such as Beaver Creek Village report lighter snowfall, with future forecasts suggesting a slight increase that could improve the current thin snowpack of 4 inches. Towns like Telluride and Durango, near locations such as Columbus Basin and Vallecito, with anticipated snowfalls of 3 to 7 inches, might experience rejuvenated ski and snowboarding conditions.
On the other end of the spectrum, areas like Columbine Pass and Bear River have seen snowpack depths dwindle, with recent snowfalls not sufficiently replenishing the layers. However, they are expected to receive some relief with light snowfall in the forecast. In summary, Colorado presents a mixed bag this season, with select areas enjoying abundant snowpacks and others awaiting more snowfall. Snow enthusiasts should keep an eye on the forecast, as the predicted snow could provide fresh opportunities for winter recreation across the state's varied terrain.
| Statewide Snowpack |
13.0%
Of Normal |
| Coldest Location |
18"
Lake Irene |
| Top Forecast |
10"
Burlington |
| Deepest Snowpack |
26"
Beartown |
| Most Snowfall |
9"
Nohrsc Bear River |
Forecast Models
-
Western Mosquito Range/East Lake County Above 11000 Ft; Eastern Sawatch Mountains above 11000 Ft; La Garita Mountains Above 10000 Ft; Eastern San Juan Mountains Above 10000 Ft
-
Del Norte Vicinity/Northern San Luis Valley Below 8500 Ft
-
Northwestern Fremont County Above 8500Ft; Western/Central Fremont County Below 8500 Ft; Teller County/Rampart Range above 7500fT/Pike's Peak Between 7500 And 11000 Ft; Pikes Peak above 11000 Ft; Northern El Paso County/Monument Ridge/Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft
Snowpack Depths
Snowpack conditions in Colorado vary across different mountain ranges. As of January 2022, the snowpack is above average in most areas, with the highest percentages in the northern and central mountains. The Upper Colorado, South Platte, and Arkansas River basins have snowpack levels above 120% of normal. The San Juan and Rio Grande basins have slightly below average snowpack.
The snow in Colorado's mountains acts as a natural reservoir, supplying water for rivers and watersheds throughout the state. Snowmelt contributes to the headwaters of major rivers such as the Colorado, Platte, Arkansas, and Rio Grande. The snowpack is crucial for agriculture, municipal water supplies, and recreational activities like skiing and snowboarding.
Colorado's winter climate is influenced by the state's high elevation and the Rocky Mountains. The mountains capture moisture from Pacific storms, resulting in significant snowfall. The state experiences a mix of cold temperatures, strong winds, and frequent snowstorms during the winter months.
Interesting facts about Colorado's snow science and history include the development of snow measurement techniques by Dr. James Church in the early 20th century. He established the Snow Research Laboratory in Silverton, where he conducted groundbreaking studies on snow physics. Colorado is also known for its snowfall records, such as the highest annual snowfall ever recorded in the United States at Silver Lake in 1978-1979, with a staggering 1,140 inches (95 feet) of snow.