Just when you thought winter was coming to an end, bang, we see a full return to winter in the Colorado high country! As I type on the morning of Monday, May 16th, we have heavy snow falling throughout the highest elevations, with Loveland Pass turning completely snow-packed. Remember when I mentioned that you should keep your snow tires on through the end of May? Well this why...

For the rest of Monday, expect periods of moderate to heavy snow to continue to fall for areas above ~10,000 feet. Even though Arapahoe Basin is the only remaining open resort in Colorado, the skiing will feel like mid-winter! The coldest temperatures will arrive on Monday night and into Tuesday, especially for areas east of the divide. Here's a look at the temperatures compared to average, in degrees Fahrenheit, for Tuesday, May 17th. 

The deep purples are showing us temperatures of 30 degrees below-average for areas east of the divide. Mayuary indeed! The heaviest snow will be behind us as we enter Tuesday but periods of off-and-on snow will continue through Wednesday. In total, we are looking at a possible 12-18 inches for areas above ~11,000 feet through Wednesday. 

In regards to the road surfaces, the high May sun angle will help keep most of the lower elevations snow free but the mountain passes and areas near the Eisenhower Tunnel will transition between icy, slushy, and slightly snow-packed through Tuesday. Give yourself plenty of time if you are traveling in the high country and keep an eye on CDOT for the latest information. 

Come Thursday, we will warm up and become mostly dry. As is the case during most late spring and summer days, chances for afternoon showers will be in the forecast. Mostly dry conditions and warmer temperatures will then remain in place for the corridor through next weekend.

Our attention will quickly turn to the beginning of next week or around Monday, May 23rd as another disturbance takes aim for Colorado. It's the endless winter!

Even though I'm now posting irregular updates, thanks for reading and supporting OpenSnow!

SAM COLLENTINE