Forget flowers and chocolates—this Valentine’s Day, Colorado is getting a major winter storm instead. A powerful system is set to slam the state starting Tuesday afternoon, bringing heavy snowfall, dangerous winds, and bitter cold. Some areas, especially in the mountains, could get buried under up to two feet of snow, making travel treacherous and leading to possible road closures.
For those hoping for a cozy winter wonderland, this storm might deliver—but it’s also bringing blizzard-like conditions, whiteout visibility, and subzero temperatures. Whether you’re staying in or heading out, it’s time to prepare for an intense winter blast.
How Much Snow Are We Talking?
This storm is not messing around. The heaviest snow is expected along the Continental Divide, hitting areas like Summit, Grand, Gilpin, Clear Creek, and Park counties the hardest. If you’re in these regions, expect 10 to 24 inches of fresh powder.
Lower elevations, including Denver and the surrounding metro area, won’t escape either—expect 4 to 10 inches, with gusty winds up to 35 mph making it feel even worse. Those winds will also blow and drift snow across roads, causing sudden whiteout conditions that could make driving extremely dangerous.
To top it all off, an Arctic air blast is following right behind the snow, sending temperatures into the single digits by Tuesday night, and below zero by Wednesday evening.
Should You Even Be Driving?
Short answer: If you don’t have to—DON’T.
Colorado officials are strongly advising against travel, especially in the mountains. If you absolutely have to be on the road, take serious precautions:
- Check road conditions before heading out.
- Pack emergency gear—blankets, food, water, flashlights, and a fully charged phone.
- Avoid mountain passes—I-70 through the Rockies could become nearly impassable during the worst of the storm.
And It’s Not Over Yet…
As if this storm wasn’t enough, another potentially stronger system is already in the forecast for Thursday night through Saturday. That one could dump another 1 to 2 feet of snow in higher elevations, adding even more travel headaches just before the Presidents Day weekend.
Stay Safe, Stay Warm
This Valentine’s Day, staying inside with a hot drink and a warm blanket might be your best plan. Between the heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and dangerous driving conditions, this is shaping up to be a storm you don’t want to mess with. Stay prepared, stay informed, and most importantly—stay safe, Colorado!