Colorado Braces for Spring Snowstorm That Could Dump 48 Inches and Knock Out Power

Key facts

• Xcel Energy has placed additional crews on standby ahead of the storm.
• The storm is forecast to bring up to 48 inches of snow in some areas.
• Wind gusts could reach 70 mph, threatening highways across multiple western states.
• Denver is under a Winter Impact Alert as the storm is expected midweek.
• Temperatures will climb into the low 70s on Monday before the storm arrives.
• The snow is described as heavy and cement-like by meteorologists.
• Littleton, Colorado, is among areas expected to see the heaviest snowfall.
• Resident Chuck Bennett has prepared by pruning trees away from power lines.

A Sudden Shift From Spring Warmth to Winter Fury

After a Monday that will see temperatures soar into the low 70s, Colorado is bracing for a dramatic reversal as a powerful spring snowstorm is set to sweep across the state. Forecasters have issued a Winter Storm Warning, predicting up to four feet of snow in the mountains and significant accumulations in the Denver metro area. The storm, expected to arrive midweek, is being described as a 'Pinpoint Weather Alert Day' by local meteorologists. The sudden transition from unseasonable warmth to heavy snow poses unique risks. The snow is forecast to be wet and cement-like, which can cling to trees and power lines, leading to widespread outages. Xcel Energy has already announced it is putting extra crews on standby to respond to potential power disruptions.

Xcel Energy Prepares for Heavy Wet Snow and Power Outages

Xcel Energy issued a release stating that the company is mobilizing additional crews in anticipation of the heavy, wet snow. This type of precipitation is particularly hazardous because its weight can cause tree limbs to snap and bring down power lines. The utility is urging customers to be prepared for possible outages and to have emergency supplies on hand. David Boswell, production manager at The Natural Way Tree and Lawncare, emphasized the importance of proactive tree maintenance. 'By pruning the tree, keeping the tree well pruned, thinned out, keeping dead wood out of there, you are going to take a lot of weight off the specific region of the tree,' Boswell said. He also noted that safely tugging lower branches can help remove accumulated snow.

Residents Take Precautions as Cement-Like Snow Threatens Trees

In Littleton, one of the areas expected to see the heaviest snowfall, resident Chuck Bennett has already taken steps to protect his property. 'I make sure that the trees don’t get up into the power line and cause a problem with the wind,' Bennett said. His preparation reflects a broader awareness among locals who remember past storms that caused extensive damage. Meteorologist Jacob Woods of FOX31 described the snow as 'heavy, cement-like snow that will just cake up all over the trees.' The combination of weight and wind could create hazardous conditions, with gusts potentially reaching 70 mph in some areas. The storm is expected to affect highways across multiple western states, raising concerns about travel disruptions.

A Welcome Reprieve From Drought Despite the Risks

Despite the dangers, many Coloradans are welcoming the storm for the moisture it will bring. The region has been grappling with drought conditions, and this storm could help alleviate some of the water deficit. The heavy snowpack in the mountains is crucial for water supply later in the year. However, the immediate risks are significant. Downed trees and power lines could leave thousands without electricity, and the weight of the snow could cause structural damage. Emergency services are on alert, and residents are advised to stay indoors during the worst of the storm.

The Storm's Broader Impact Across the Western States

The winter storm warning extends beyond Colorado, with up to four feet of snow possible in the mountains and 70 mph gusts threatening highways across several western states. The system is expected to move through the region over several days, bringing heavy snow to higher elevations and rain to lower areas. Forecasters are urging travelers to avoid non-essential travel during the peak of the storm. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds could create whiteout conditions, making roads impassable. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and may issue additional warnings as the storm develops.

Looking Ahead: Recovery and Resilience

Once the storm passes, the focus will shift to recovery. Xcel Energy has assured customers that crews are ready to restore power as quickly as possible. Tree removal services are also bracing for a surge in demand as homeowners deal with damaged limbs. For many, the storm is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparation. As one resident put it, being ready can make all the difference. The coming days will test the resilience of Colorado's infrastructure and its communities.

The bottom line

• A major spring snowstorm is forecast to bring up to 48 inches of snow to Colorado, with heavy, wet snow that can cause power outages.
• Xcel Energy has put extra crews on standby to respond to potential power disruptions from downed trees and limbs.
• Temperatures will drop sharply from the low 70s on Monday to winter conditions by midweek.
• The storm is expected to affect highways across multiple western states with heavy snow and 70 mph wind gusts.
• Residents like Chuck Bennett in Littleton are pruning trees to prevent damage to power lines.
• Despite the risks, the storm is welcomed for its potential to ease drought conditions in the region.