Following weeks of warm temperatures and dry spells, Colorado is expected to experience a brief winter resurgence. However, meteorologists caution that this change won’t significantly enhance the state’s snowpack, which has been notably low this season.
Current Snowpack Status in Colorado
Colorado’s snowpack remains critically behind typical levels for this time of year. According to Joel Gratz, founder and CEO of OpenSnow, recent measurements from around 100 automated weather stations indicate near record low snowpack levels. The Upper Arkansas basin is particularly affected, sitting at just 47 percent of its normal snowpack.
River Basin Conditions
- Many of Colorado’s river basins are at or near minimum levels recorded over the past decade.
- Only two or three substantial snowstorms could bring the state back to normal snowpack levels.
Short-Term Weather Forecast
Forecasts suggest that light snowfall may occur on New Year’s Day, but it is unlikely to lead to significant snow accumulation. Initial snow is expected to begin around 11 a.m. Thursday, tapering off Friday evening. Meteorologist Maggie Ideker from the National Weather Service has indicated that overall, dry conditions and temperatures above normal will persist throughout the week.
Potential Impact of La Niña
While current precipitation levels in Colorado might not directly correlate with climate change, the warm temperatures could be linked to broader climatic shifts. La Niña, a climate pattern that influences weather variability in the state, may also contribute to the ongoing dryness.
The Role of Climate Change
Although Gratz suggests that the current scenario does not reflect a climate change issue, broader patterns cannot be ignored. Colorado State Climatologist Russ Schumacher emphasizes the importance of context, noting that while winters with low snowfall are historically common, this December is poised to be one of the warmest on record, potentially exceeding the previous high set in 1980.
Future Temperature Expectations
Looking ahead, temperatures in the mountainous regions are forecast to remain between the mid-30s and 40s. Meanwhile, eastern Colorado could experience highs in the mid-50s to 60s, which is significantly above the seasonal average. These patterns underline the ongoing effects of climate change within the region.
