If you’re a Coloradan, you’ve likely been asking, “Where is the snow in Denver?” As of December 30, 2024, Denver has received just 23.3 inches of snowfall this season, well below the long-term average of 56.6 inches for an entire season. However, it's important to clarify that the 23.3 inches reported so far is cumulative snowfall up to late December. By this time of year, Denver typically sees around 25-30% of its seasonal average snowfall, meaning the current amount is near but slightly below expectations for this point in the season. So, why does it feel like the snow is missing? Let’s explore the possibilities.
1. Climate Change: Is It Changing Denver’s Winters?
Climate change is often the first suspect when discussing unusual weather patterns. Rising global temperatures are affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, and Colorado is no exception.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), warmer winters lead to more precipitation falling as rain instead of snow. Additionally, warmer conditions result in snow melting earlier in the season, reducing overall snowpack levels. Snowpack is crucial for Colorado’s water supply, as it provides about 70% of the state’s water through runoff.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that Colorado’s average temperature has increased by 2.5°F since the early 20th century. This warming trend not only reduces snowfall but also extends the length of the fire season and impacts ecosystems dependent on consistent snowmelt.
2. La Niña: A Natural Cycle Affecting Snowfall
La Niña, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, has a significant impact on Colorado’s weather. During a La Niña winter, the jet stream shifts northward, often leaving parts of Colorado drier than usual.
Meteorologist Chris Tomer from KDVR explains, “La Niña winters often lead to below-average snowfall in Colorado’s Front Range while favoring heavier snow in the northern mountains.” While this weather pattern is cyclical and typically lasts 1-3 years, its effects can exacerbate existing issues, such as drought conditions already heightened by climate change.
3. Long-Term Cycles: A Historical Look at Snowfall in Denver
While both climate change and La Niña are immediate factors, Colorado’s snowfall has always exhibited long-term variability. Denver’s historical snowfall average has decreased from 57.1 inches (1882-2015) to 49 inches (1991-2020), suggesting a gradual downward trend.
It’s important to note that natural climate variability—such as shifts in ocean currents or volcanic activity—can also influence snowfall patterns. However, the consistent decline over decades indicates that broader forces, like global warming, are likely at play.
Why Should We Care About Denver’s Missing Snow?
The reduced snowfall has far-reaching implications for Colorado’s environment and economy:
Water Supply: Less snow means reduced water availability for agriculture, municipal use, and recreation. The Colorado River, which relies heavily on snowpack, is already overallocated.
Wildfire Risk: Earlier snowmelt extends the fire season, increasing the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
Winter Recreation: Ski resorts depend on consistent snowfall to attract tourists. A shorter snow season could lead to significant economic losses.
What Can We Do About It?
While we can’t control La Niña or natural cycles, addressing climate change is within our power. Adopting sustainable practices, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting policies aimed at combating global warming can help mitigate its effects.
Final Thoughts
So, where is the snow in Denver? The answer lies in a combination of factors: climate change, La Niña, and long-term trends. While some variability is natural, the consistent decline in snowfall is a cause for concern. Staying informed and taking action are essential steps to preserving Colorado’s unique climate and way of life.
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Citations:
National Weather Service. (n.d.). Denver, Colorado - Climate Data. Retrieved from https://www.weather.gov
Colorado State University. (n.d.). Climate Change and Its Impacts on Colorado. Retrieved from https://climate.colostate.edu
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (n.d.). Snowfall and Snowpack Trends in the Rocky Mountains. Retrieved from https://www.noaa.gov
Denver Post Staff. (2024). Tracking Denver’s Unusual Snowfall Trends. Retrieved from https://www.denverpost.com
United States Geological Survey (USGS). (n.d.). Effects of Climate Variability on Snowpack in the Rocky Mountains. Retrieved from https://www.usgs.gov
Western Regional Climate Center. (n.d.). Denver Monthly Snowfall Averages and Extremes. Retrieved from https://www.wrcc.dri.edu
Colorado Climate Center. (n.d.). Understanding Colorado's Snow and Water Cycles. Retrieved from https://climate.colostate.edu
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