Weather
Colorado has been experiencing an extended period of extreme wind, with conditions reaching hazardous levels across much of the state.
Beginning Wednesday, December 17, the Continental Divide recorded wind gusts approaching 100 mph. The high winds extended east into the Front Range, prompting the National Weather Service in Boulder to issue a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) warning for northern Jefferson County and western Boulder County.
Gusts of 85–100 mph have already caused widespread impacts in Boulder, including downed trees, power disruptions, and airborne debris.
Several ski areas have been affected. Arapahoe Basin and Loveland Ski Area reported operational impacts after a tree fell onto a power line west of Loveland Pass. Both resorts remain open, though base-area services are limited. Eldora Mountain Resort, located in Boulder County, closed entirely following a precautionary power shutoff by Xcel Energy.
In a conditions report posted at 5:50 a.m., Eldora advised skiers and riders to avoid travel altogether. “On Friday, Dec. 19, we ask that people stay home and off the roads,” the resort stated. “Wind conditions will be dangerously high, especially in areas west of Broadway in Boulder and along the foothills.”
Looking ahead to the weekend, wind speeds are expected to ease. A weaker storm system is forecast to bring approximately 2–5 inches of snowfall to resorts along the Continental Divide.
