The NOAA winter outlook for Colorado is forecasting a mixed bag of weather conditions as we head into the Winter months of December, January, and February. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center releases its long-range Winter forecasts each mid-October, providing insights into temperature and precipitation trends across the region.
According to the latest outlook, northern Colorado stands a higher chance of experiencing above-normal snowfall accumulations, attributed in part to a weak La Niña weather pattern expected during the winter season. La Niña typically brings cooler sea surface temperatures in the central Pacific, impacting weather patterns across various regions, including the central Rockies.
Temperature predictions indicate that western and southern parts of Colorado are likely to experience warmer-than-normal conditions, while areas like Denver, northern Colorado, and the eastern plains are expected to see temperatures closer to seasonal averages. These conditions could potentially lead to increased snowfall in the northern mountains, a common occurrence during La Niña years.
In terms of precipitation, most areas in the state have an equal chance of receiving either below or above-average moisture levels. This balanced forecast increases the likelihood of normal snowfall overall. Nevertheless, historical trends suggest that during La Niña years, the northern and central mountain regions tend to receive more snow compared to lower elevations such as Denver, the eastern plains, and southern Colorado.
Despite these trends, there have been instances in the past where significant snowstorms impacted Denver and the Front Range during La Niña-influenced years. For example, the storm that hit Denver on March 13-14, 2021, resulting in 27.1 inches of snow, and the infamous December 24th, 1982 storm which brought 23.8 inches of snow to the Mile High City, stand out as memorable events.
Overall, the NOAA winter outlook for Colorado suggests a varied Winter weather pattern ahead, with localized impacts depending on the specific geographic areas within the state. As residents gear up for the colder months, it is advisable to stay tuned to weather updates and preparedness measures to handle any potential extreme weather events.
