Boulder County Prepares for First Major Snowstorm of the Season
Boulder County is finally getting its first substantial snowfall of the season, bringing a much-needed change to the unusually warm winter that has characterized the region. The storm, which is expected to start in the early hours of Wednesday morning, will bring 3 to 5 inches of snow to Boulder and 2 to 4 inches to Longmont, according to meteorologist Zach Hiris from the National Weather Service.
This marks the first winter weather advisory for Boulder since last season, and it comes after a record-breaking late start to the snowfall season. On Saturday, both Boulder and Longmont saw their first snowfall of the year, but only minimal amounts — 0.3 inches in Boulder and 0.2 inches in Longmont. This was the latest first snowfall on record for both cities.
Preparing for the Storm
Boulder County’s public works department has already begun preparations for the storm. Andrew Barth, communication manager for Boulder County Public Works, said the county is readying its 31 plows for action on Wednesday morning. Priority roads such as South Boulder Road, 95th Street, and Magnolia Road will be cleared first, followed by less-trafficked areas.
Barth emphasized that the department is short-staffed and may take longer to reach all areas. He urged residents to be patient and give plow operators plenty of space. Drivers should stay 200 feet behind plows, as passing them is illegal in Colorado.
Longmont is also preparing for the storm, with 13 plows set to be deployed across the city. The city has already been salting roads to prevent ice buildup, and plows will be working around the clock until the storm passes.
Fun with Snowplows
Boulder’s snowplows have some unique names this year, thanks to K-12 students who have been naming them for the fifth consecutive year. Some of the fun titles include “Life of a Snowgirl,” “Sleetwood Mac,” “Snow2D2,” and “Lollaplowlooza.” These playful names add a touch of humor to the otherwise serious task of clearing roads.
Impact on Skiers and Local Businesses
The snowstorm is a welcome relief for skiers and local ski shops. Eldora Mountain Resort spokesperson Sam Bass said the resort has struggled to open many trails due to dry conditions and warm temperatures. However, the upcoming storm is expected to bring 4 to 10 inches of snow to Nederland, which will help bolster the resort’s snowmaking efforts.
“Any natural snow that comes with that is gravy,” Bass said. “We’re really excited about it.”
Local ski shops, like Angles Ski, Board & Fly Shop in Longmont, are also looking forward to the snowfall. Owner Ryan Kazee said the shop has been hearing about the dry conditions in the high country and is hopeful that the storm will boost business.
“We have been looking forward to snow down here just to get everyone’s spirits up,” Kazee said. “This week is a big deal for us as a ski shop.”
A Welcome Change
The snowstorm brings a dramatic shift from the warm and dry conditions that have dominated the beginning of the winter season. For residents of Boulder and Longmont, it offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of snowfall and prepare for the traditional winter activities that come with it.
As the storm approaches, both cities are working diligently to ensure safety and accessibility for all. With plows on standby and communities coming together, Boulder County is ready to embrace the snow and the joy it brings.
