Weather
Denver-based meteorologist Chris Tomer is one of the most accurate forecasters we know. Check out and subscribe to his mountain weather forecast videos to see where North America will get the most snow.
“UT heaviest snow above 9,000ft with 12″+ between 10/17-10/18, heaviest in CO above 8-9K with 1-2 feet between 10/18-10/20 as low gets cut off, Tetons get 4-8 inches mid-mountain and higher, Wind Rivers get 5-12″, and MT gets 8-12 inches mid-mountain and higher.”
The winter weather forecast brings exciting news for snow lovers. A significant storm system is set to deliver fresh powder across several mountain regions.
Current Conditions and Forecast
Storm Arrival: The anticipated storm has officially arrived, bringing both rain and snow to areas from Idaho to Colorado. Notably, the Tetons and Wind Rivers are already seeing snow, while light precipitation is beginning to move into Colorado. The key days for snowfall are still ahead, particularly for Colorado.
Temperature Variations: Lower elevations are experiencing milder temperatures (around 32-43°F), but higher elevations are getting blanketed in snow. For example, Big Sky is currently at 32°F at the base with snow falling, and Jackson Hole shows a range of 32°F at the summit to 43°F at the base.
Snow Accumulation Predictions
Utah: Expect a foot or more of snow in areas above 9,000 feet in the Wasatch, especially at Solitude, Brighton, Alta, and Snowbird.
Colorado: Higher elevations in Southwest Colorado could see up to two feet of snow as the storm settles in for a few days. This prolonged period of snowfall will be particularly advantageous for resorts in this region.
Key Dates
The bulk of precipitation is forecasted from today through tomorrow (October 17-18), with continued snowfall expected for Colorado into October 19-20 as the storm lingers over the area.
Areas of Focus
Montana & Wyoming: Areas like Big Sky and Granite Peak are predicted to receive 4-12 inches of fresh snow. The Tetons might see around 4 to 8 inches, while the Wind Rivers could receive 6 to 12 inches due to better storm orientation.
Southwest Colorado: Due to the storm’s stationary nature over New Mexico and Colorado, this region is expected to receive some of the highest accumulations. Skiers can anticipate substantial snowfall here over the next few days.
Upcoming Weather Patterns
After this storm passes, another system is projected around October 24-26, indicating a potentially active weather pattern that could bring even more snow later in the month.
