Predictions related to snowfall accumulation that’s set to take place over the next few days in Colorado seem to trending up, with initial estimates of about seven to nine inches of snow in the mountains now looking small compared to the 10 percent chance ‘high-end’ snowfall scenario that could occur. Even in the more likely ‘expected’ scenario, some peaks are expected to get between 18 and 24 inches by Friday morning.

The most recent mapping from the National Weather Service shows that in the most likely ‘expected’ scenario (80% chance), about eight to 12 inches of snow could land on many Colorado peaks through 5 a.m. on February 13, particularly those located north of Gunnison and stretching up to the state line with Wyoming. Peaks near Aspen and those of the Flat Tops get hit hard, but those near Steamboat Springs get hit the hardest, with about 18 to 24 inches likely in the Park Range by the time Friday morning hits.

See this ‘expected’ scenario depicted on the map below, and keep scrolling for a look at the impressive ‘high end’ forecast:

If the ‘high-end’ snowfall forecast occurs, totals in the range of 12 to 18 inches should be much more widespread, with some peaks in the aforementioned Park Range near Steamboat Springs having a shot at snow in the range of 24 to 36 inches.

See this scenario below:

In both the ‘expected’ and the ‘high-end’ scenarios, not much snow – if any – is expected along the I-25 corridor and the major population centers found in that part of the state.

Looking ahead, more snow is expected over the next couple of weeks. At least two key rounds of snow are expected with initial reporting showing that each could bring notable totals on par with what’s set to fall over the next few days. Stay tuned as mid-February gets underway for additional mapping of what those storms may look like.

Find additional forecasting information on the National Weather Service website.

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