Historic Snowstorm Brings Record-Breaking Snowfall to Colorado

A significant snowstorm has swept across Colorado, leaving the state under a blanket of snow and causing widespread impact. This storm, which began earlier this week, is the largest multi-day November snowstorm Denver has seen in 30 years. Since Tuesday, Denver International Airport has accumulated 13.8 inches of snow, a amount last seen in November 1994.

The snowfall totals vary widely across different regions of Colorado. In the Denver metro area, snow amounts have ranged from 9 to 20 inches as of early Friday evening, with an additional 6 to 9 inches expected through Saturday morning. The foothills of Jefferson County and the Palmer Divide are anticipated to receive another 6 to 12 inches of snow.

In other areas, significant snowfall totals include Black Forest with 27 inches, Peyton with 27.9 inches, and Westcliffe with 31 inches. The Air Force Academy reported 23 inches, and Palmer Lake saw 24.7 inches. Southern Colorado areas have experienced anywhere from 1 to over 3 feet of snow.

Adams County saw varied snow accumulation, with northwest Bennett recording up to 20 inches and northwest Federal Heights receiving only 4 inches. In Arapahoe County, southeast Foxfield accumulated up to 30.6 inches, while Littleton and Cherry Creek Reservoir saw totals surpassing 20 inches. Douglas County also faced major snow totals, with areas like southeast The Pinery recording up to 28.8 inches.

The heavy snow has caused treacherous driving conditions, power outages, and disruptions to daily life. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has mobilized snowplows and emergency teams to clear major highways and assist stranded drivers. Governor Jared Polis issued an emergency declaration to expedite recovery efforts, emphasizing the importance of staying off roads unless absolutely necessary.

The storm has also impacted air travel, with significant delays and flight cancellations reported at Denver International Airport. Businesses and schools have been affected, with some transitioning to remote learning. Despite the challenges, the community has shown resilience, with neighbors coming together to assist each other.