A rare winter storm warning has been issued for Denver, Colorado, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, as a spring snowstorm is set to arrive late tonight. The National Weather Service predicts heavy snowfall that could disrupt travel plans and threaten crops.
In Denver, residents can expect between 3 to 9 inches of snow by Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, Cheyenne may see an accumulation of 4 to 8 inches during the same period. The northern mountains and foothills could bear the brunt of the storm, with totals reaching up to 2 feet.
The storm’s arrival coincides with severe drought conditions across the region — a much-needed influx of moisture for farmers. Yet, this sudden shift in weather raises concerns about potential freeze damage to early crops. A freeze watch will be in effect from Wednesday night through Thursday morning.
Key impacts expected:
- Travel disruptions along Interstate 80 and Interstate 25 due to hazardous road conditions.
- Xcel Energy has deployed 165 employees on standby to address potential power outages caused by heavy, wet snow.
- Fort Collins is projected to receive approximately 1.9 inches of precipitation from rain and snow during the storm.
Officials warn that the weight of the snow could lead to downed tree branches and power lines. They emphasize that drivers should exercise caution if they must travel on Wednesday morning.
As one spokesperson noted, “The heavy and wet snow could knock down tree branches and power lines and lead to slick and hazardous road conditions Wednesday morning.” The storm presents both a challenge and an opportunity — vital moisture for drought-stricken areas but risks for crops and infrastructure alike.