Don't Get Caught Up On Snow Totals, A Blizzard Is All About The Wind
By Chris Spears
DENVER (CBS4) - With any approaching snowstorm the question at the top of everyone's mind is how much snow will I get?
And rightfully so.
But don't get too caught up on the snow totals with this storm system because the wind will likely be the dominant headline.
A blizzard has nothing to do with snowfall amounts but rather the wind.
COLORADO'S WEATHER CENTER: Read The Latest Forecast From Colorado's Weather Center
If the combination of wind and blowing snow can reduce the visibility of a location to less than a quarter mile for three hours or longer the storm is classified as a blizzard.
Typically during a blizzard wind speeds average 35 mph or greater.
As the low pressure picks up strength near southeast Colorado Monday night and Tuesday it will draw up rich moisture from the south and swing it back into the Front Range.
But that will also create a large pressure gradient over eastern Colorado which will drive the wind.
Snow totals are going to vary widely across the area, potentially even over short distances.
We do expect a narrow band in excess of 10" somewhere along the Palmer Divide between Denver and Colorado Springs. The communities at highest risk for the biggest totals include Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Parker, Elizabeth, Southeast Aurora and Limon.
The totals will dramatically decrease the further north you go from the Palmer Divide.
Everyone will experience a period of very strong wind that will create blowing and drifting snow and potentially even white out conditions on the roads.
Areas along and east of Interstate 25 and between Interstates 70 and 76 are under a blizzard warning Monday night and most of the day on Tuesday.
Meteorologist Chris Spears writes about stories related to weather and climate in Colorado. Check out his bio, connect with him on Facebook or follow him on Twitter @ChrisCBS4.
