Denver braces for potentially record-breaking winter storm

Denver braces for potentially record-breaking winter storm

A major storm set to bring heavy snow to the Rockies could be Denver’s biggest snowstorm in three years.

Nine states from California to Montana to New Mexico are on alert for the snow and wind, with winter storm watches and warnings stretching across the Rockies.

PHOTO: Snowfall forecast this week.

Snowfall forecast this week.

ABC News

A winter storm warning is in effect for the Denver metro area starting Wednesday night and lasting through early Friday. The worst of the storm will hit on Thursday.

The forecast is calling for 8 to 16 inches of snow for the Denver metro area, with the highest totals near the foothills and the Palmer Divide.

If Denver International Airport gets more than 9 inches of snow, this would mark Denver’s biggest snowstorm in three years.

Up to 20 inches of snow is possible west of Denver and more than 3 feet of snow is possible in the Front Range mountains and foothills.

Denver residents are bracing themselves for what meteorologists are predicting could be a record-breaking winter storm. With forecasts calling for heavy snowfall, strong winds, and bitterly cold temperatures, the city is preparing for potentially dangerous conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the Denver metro area, with predictions of up to two feet of snow in some areas. This has prompted city officials to activate their emergency response plans and advise residents to stay off the roads if possible.

The storm is expected to hit Denver and the surrounding areas over the next 24-48 hours, with snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour at times. This could lead to whiteout conditions and treacherous driving conditions, making travel extremely hazardous.

In addition to the heavy snowfall, forecasters are also warning of strong winds gusting up to 50 mph, which could create blizzard-like conditions and cause power outages. Residents are being urged to prepare for potential power outages by stocking up on essential supplies such as food, water, and batteries.

The combination of heavy snow and strong winds is likely to result in dangerous wind chills, with temperatures expected to plummet well below zero. This poses a serious risk to anyone venturing outside, as frostbite and hypothermia can set in quickly in such extreme conditions.

City officials are working diligently to ensure that roads are plowed and salted in a timely manner, but they are urging residents to stay off the roads if possible to allow crews to do their work safely and efficiently. Public transportation services may also be impacted by the storm, so residents are advised to check for updates on service disruptions.

As Denver braces for this potentially record-breaking winter storm, it is important for residents to take precautions to stay safe and warm. This includes dressing in layers, staying indoors as much as possible, and checking on vulnerable neighbors who may need assistance.

By staying informed and prepared, Denver residents can weather this storm and emerge safely on the other side. Let’s all work together to stay safe and warm during this challenging weather event.