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Colorado Faces Slick Travel Amid Low Snowpack Levels

12/29/2025

24 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter weather advisories for Colorado, warning of slick travel conditions.
Snowfall on December 27-28 ranged from 0-2 inches in the Denver metro area and up to a foot in the Park and Gore ranges.
Snow ended in Denver by 7 a.m. on December 28.
Colorado's snowpack remains at 54% of the median, marking one of the lowest levels for this time of year.

History

Historical Context

The 2002 drought in Colorado, which began in spring, saw snowpack levels drop to 50% of the median, prompting water restrictions in Denver for the first time in over 20 years. This drought, caused by a persistent Bermuda High, parallels current concerns as Colorado's snowpack is now at 54%, threatening agriculture and urban water supplies in the region.

History

Historical Context

Colorado's water crisis has roots in climate change, with snowpack levels declining by 20-60% since the 1950s. In 2002, drought conditions saw snowpack drop to 50% of the median, while current levels are at 54%. The Colorado River, vital for 40 million people, has seen a nearly 20% reduction in flow this century, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable water management.

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Story summary

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued winter weather advisories for Colorado, warning of slick travel conditions.
Snowfall on December 27-28 ranged from 0-2 inches in the Denver metro area and up to a foot in the Park and Gore ranges.
Snow ended in Denver by 7 a.m. on December 28.
Colorado's snowpack remains at 54% of the median, marking one of the lowest levels for this time of year.

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