Wind and Blowing Snow Impact Southern Colorado Through Tuesday

Southern Colorado faces high-wind gusts and lingering moisture

A low-pressure system that brought significant flooding to the San Juan Mountains and southwestern Colorado over the weekend is shifting its focus, creating a blustery and cool start to the week for the rest of the region. Residents across Southern Colorado are bracing for a Monday night marked by lingering showers and potentially hazardous wind conditions, according to reports from KKTV and FOX21 News.

The weather pattern is expected to impact travel and outdoor conditions through Tuesday morning. KKTV reported that wind gusts could reach 60 mph on Monday night, with the Palmer Divide area specifically facing the risk of blowing snow and reduced visibility as precipitation persists. FOX21 News corroborated the active nature of the system, noting that the cold front pushing through the region has already brought northerly winds and cooler temperatures, with afternoon highs struggling to reach the low 50s.

Impacts at the Palmer Divide and Raton Mesa

The transition of this system is moving from north to south, shifting attention toward the Raton Mesa as the day progresses. While the southeastern plains deal with lingering showers and gusty winds, the higher elevations are seeing a mix of rain and snow. FOX21 News indicated that Teller County has already experienced bursts of snow, a trend consistent with the colder air mass associated with this low-pressure center.

For those traveling through the “gap” at the Palmer Divide, the combination of high winds and early-week snow poses a challenge for Tuesday morning commutes. KKTV forecasts winds remaining intense throughout Tuesday, with gusts potentially hitting 60 to 70 mph in the afternoon, even as the region begins to dry out.

Mid-week forecast and seasonal temperature trends

The reprieve from precipitation will be short-lived. By Wednesday, a new chance for showers enters the forecast for southern Colorado and the mountain regions. Temperatures are expected to remain a few degrees below seasonal averages, continuing the cool theme that has defined the early part of November.

According to data from the National Weather Service, keeping track of these rapid shifts is standard for Colorado’s high-altitude climate during the transition into winter.

Wind and Blowing Snow Impact Southern Colorado Through Tuesday — Photo: fox21news.com

Monday Night: Lingering showers, wind gusts up to 60 mph, and blowing snow at the Palmer Divide.
Tuesday: Drier conditions, continued high winds of 60-70 mph, and temperatures in the 50s.
Wednesday: Renewed chance of rain showers and cooler-than-average temperatures.

Looking ahead to the end of the week, sunshine is expected to return on Thursday and Friday. Both KKTV and FOX21 News suggest that the weekend will maintain this trend of cool, dry November weather, offering a period of stability after the current low-pressure system clears the state. For those planning outdoor activities, the recommendation remains to dress for blustery conditions and stay updated on local alerts, as the rapid elevation changes in the region often amplify the impact of these wind-driven systems.