Colorado Braces for Heavy Snow and Subzero Temperatures This Weekend

DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado residents are preparing for a dramatic shift in weather as a major snowstorm and frigid temperatures are forecast to hit the state this weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day for Saturday, warning of heavy snowfall, icy road conditions, and some of the coldest temperatures of the season.

While the workweek will see mostly sunny skies and gradual warming, with highs reaching the lower 50s by Thursday, a sharp drop in temperatures is expected starting Friday night. Snow showers are predicted to begin Friday evening, intensifying into Saturday with significant accumulation across much of the state. Temperatures are expected to plummet, with overnight lows near zero in metro Denver and below-zero readings in mountain valleys.

“Saturday will feature snow for much of the day, with accumulating snow expected,” according to the National Weather Service. “After the snow ends, temperatures will fall to near zero around metro Denver, and high temperatures on Sunday will only be in the teens.”

The cold snap will persist into early next week, with Monday morning lows expected to drop below zero in many areas. High temperatures on Monday afternoon are forecast to remain in the teens, creating hazardous conditions for travel and outdoor activities.

Mapping provided by the National Weather Service indicates a “risk of heavy snow” for nearly the entire state from January 18 through January 20, excluding only Colorado’s far western edge and northeast corner. While the forecast remains subject to change, officials urge residents to stay informed and prepare for potentially dangerous conditions.

“This weekend’s weather could make travel extremely challenging,” said a spokesperson for the National Weather Service. “We encourage everyone to monitor updates and adjust plans accordingly.”

Residents are advised to check road conditions, ensure vehicles are winter-ready, and take precautions to protect against the extreme cold. Additional updates and safety information can be found on the National Weather Service website.