Western Slope Prepares for Back to Back April Storms

"It'll look more like winter on Wednesday and feel more like winter on Friday into Saturday with colder temperatures" — that's what OpenSnow Founding Meteorologist Joel Gratz is saying about the back-to-back April storms headed for Colorado's high country. Make no mistake, these storms will bring significant changes to the Western Slope.

The first storm arrives Tuesday night, bringing snow or rain to several Western Slope counties through Thursday morning. Central and southern mountain resorts like Purgatory and Aspen can expect 8-16 inches of snow, while northern mountain resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, and Winter Park will see 3-8 inches. The snow/rain line will be around 8,000 feet, meaning lower elevation valleys will likely see more rain.

This will impact your commute — a winter weather advisory from the National Weather Service warns of winds gusting up to 40 mph in mountain towns like Aspen, Snowmass, and Vail from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday night. Difficult travel conditions on mountain passes will affect morning and evening commutes on Wednesday. Folks around here know to check the road conditions before heading out.

The second storm brings snow and colder temperatures from Thursday night to Saturday morning, but it lacks moisture, snow totals for the northern and central mountains will be in the 3-10 inch range. Gratz notes that the base is "decimated in most areas, so ride carefully and remember that it might be pretty darn thin under this week's new snow." That's worth watching, especially for locals who hit the slopes.

Colorado's snowpack is well below average, currently at 24% of the median for March 30. Another storm is possible around April 8-10, but it's too early to tell. For now, the community should prepare for the upcoming storms and potential travel disruptions.

The short version: two storms are coming, and they will bring snow and colder temperatures to the Western Slope. Read that again; this is not a typical spring weather pattern. Neighbors, be aware of the changing conditions and plan accordingly.

In Delta County, this means checking the weather forecast before heading out on Highway 92 or Highway 65. In Montrose County, it means being prepared for potential power outages and having a plan in place for alternative heat sources. People in the valley should also be aware of the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. In the meantime, locals should stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This is not a drill - winter storms are headed for our region, and it's time to take action.

The region is no stranger to unpredictable weather, but this storm system is worth paying attention to. With the potential for significant snowfall and high winds, safety must be the top priority. The community will be watching the situation closely, and safety precautions are necessary.

As the storms approach, the impact on our area will become more apparent. The question is, how much? The storms' effects will be felt soon, but for now, preparation is key.