Colorado Prepares for Severe Cold and Heavy Snow

Snow-covered landscape in Colorado with icy roads

News Summary

Colorado is bracing for an intense cold front and significant snowfall expected to start this Friday, lasting through early next week. Temperatures in Denver may drop below zero, leading to dangerous wind chills as low as -30 degrees. Along with the frigid temperatures, a potential flash freeze could create hazardous road conditions. With heavy snowfall anticipated, residents are advised to stay cautious while driving and consider indoor safety measures. An emergency kit is recommended for those venturing out. The region is under a Winter Weather Advisory, and preparations are essential for the upcoming severe weather.

Colorado Gets Ready for Brutal Cold and Snowfall

Hold on to your hats, Colorado! Our beautiful state is preparing for some *seriously cold weather* starting this Friday and lasting right through early next week. As if that’s not enough to get your attention, we’re also expecting significant snowfall. So, snuggle up and let’s dive into what to expect as Mother Nature turns down the thermostat!

Frigid Temperatures Ahead

Are you ready for temperatures to plunge? Many areas across Colorado will be dipping below zero, and the Denver metro area is no exception. Starting Friday afternoon, Denver can expect to stay below freezing until at least Tuesday afternoon. If you think it can’t get colder than your fridge, think again! Overnight lows in Denver will hit approximately *-2 degrees* early Sunday, dropping to *-5 degrees* by Monday morning and hitting a chilling *-6 degrees* on Tuesday. If you’re anywhere on the eastern plains, you could be bracing for wind chills that might feel as low as an *icy -30 degrees*!

A Potential Flash Freeze is Coming

But that’s not all. Come Friday evening around 5 p.m., we might be in for a flash freeze. What is that, you ask? It happens when precipitation falls at or near freezing temperatures and then we’re hit with a rapid temperature drop. This lovely combination leads to *slick surfaces and black ice*. Keep in mind that any standing water on roads or bridges may freeze faster than water sitting on the ground, making those routes particularly dangerous.

Safe Driving Tips

So, what does this mean for those of us who plan to venture out? First of all, be prepared to swap your regular driving routine for a more cautious approach! The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has some friendly advice: *drive slowly* and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. You’ll want to avoid any potential skids or slides. Also, with heavy snowfall expected—between *4 to 6 inches this weekend*—navigating the roads could become a real challenge.

Inside Caution and Preparedness

With these hazardous weather conditions, it’s wise to consider staying indoors as much as possible. Yet, if you must go out, get that emergency kit ready! It should include some essentials like *blankets, food, water, a flashlight with extra batteries*, and a First-Aid kit. Winter can be tough on vehicles too. Expect battery issues and check your tire pressure—both can drop during such a brutal cold snap.

Snowfall Forecast and Severe Advisories

In addition to the cold, heavy snowfall is looming. The metro area is expected to receive *3 to 6 inches* of snow, with even higher amounts in the foothills. To top off this forecast, a *Winter Weather Advisory* will be in effect from 4 p.m. Friday until at least 5 p.m. Saturday. Monday looks particularly challenging, as temperatures won’t be able to squeeze into the double digits, possibly just reaching single digits and overnight lows dipping to *-7 degrees*!

Braving the Outdoors

Those wind chills could be downright life-threatening, dropping to between *-20 and -30 degrees*. This extreme cold might even impact events like the Marathon scheduled for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, so be sure to stay informed and exercise caution, especially if you are vulnerable to cold exposure.

In these trying times, let’s keep each other safe and warm. Bundle up, keep those jackets zipped tight, and let’s hope for warmer days ahead!