Denver and much of Colorado are experiencing severe winter conditions with snowfall rates reaching up to 2 inches per hour, causing significant disruptions. The storm, named Winter Storm Anya, has led to major road closures, extensive travel advisories, and activation of the Colorado National Guard. Snow totals have surpassed monthly averages, and further accumulations are expected as the storm continues.
Denver is currently under a significant snowstorm, with forecasts predicting one of the heaviest November snowfalls in decades. The city, along with other parts of Colorado, is facing extreme weather conditions that have led to widespread travel disruptions and emergency responses. The storm, which began affecting the area earlier this week, has already dumped substantial amounts of snow, with more expected to follow.
Denver is experiencing snowfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour, contributing to what could be the most substantial November snowstorm in nearly 30 years. As of now, areas like Limon and Elizabeth have recorded snow depths of over 20 inches. The heavy snowfall has overwhelmed local infrastructure, leading to major road closures and significant travel delays across the region. Meteorologists warn that the snow will continue heavily through Saturday, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay prepared for prolonged conditions of poor visibility and high snow accumulation.
In response to the severe weather, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has declared a disaster emergency and activated the National Guard to assist with storm-related challenges. The Colorado Department of Transportation has closed several major highways, including parts of Interstate 70 and Interstate 25, to manage the storm's impact effectively. Authorities have issued winter storm warnings across the state, advising against travel in the hardest-hit areas to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
After the storm clears, Denver is expected to see a significant shift in weather with temperatures rebounding into the 50s and mostly sunny skies predicted for the following week. This break in the weather will likely aid in the snowmelt and help restore normalcy. However, residents are advised to remain cautious as the large volumes of melted snow could pose additional risks such as flooding and slick road conditions.
The ongoing snowstorm in Denver and across Colorado represents a significant meteorological event with substantial immediate impacts on travel and daily life. The community's response, including preemptive closures and emergency declarations, underscores the severity of the storm. As the state braces for more snow, the focus remains on safety and preparedness to navigate this historic weather event.
"Here in Denver, we're looking at between 6 and 12 inches of snow with winter storm warnings in effect." - Stacey Donaldson, Denver7 meteorologist