Say it ain’t snow: Inclement weather hits Aspen through Wednesday

Aspen is expected to receive its first accumulated snowfall. What was expected to begin Monday afternoon will continue through Wednesday evening.

Grand Junction-based National Weather Service Meteorologist Kris Sanders said that Aspen could expect three to six inches through Wednesday, with the heavier snow beginning Tuesday and going until Wednesday evening. 

“We’re watching a low-pressure system moving in from the Pacific Northwest, and some of that moisture has already arrived in the form of clouds,” Sanders said. “Later Monday night, we should see more precipitation work its way into Aspen.

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Sanders said that the moisture on Monday night will be more focused to the south and west of Aspen, around Schofield Pass.

“As we get into Tuesday morning, we will see more of that moisture spread into the Roaring Fork Valley and spanning from Rifle to Eagle along I-70, including Vail Pass,” he said. “We will see snow developing around 8,000 feet, with upwards of two feet expected on the high peaks, and three to six inches around the 8,000 feet mark.”

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Sanders said that Aspen can expect the biggest snow totals in town on Tuesday evening into Wednesday evening, and he’s expecting a couple of inches to accumulate.

“You can expect some dusting on the roads Wednesday morning,” he said. “Things could change, but everything is expected to clear out Wednesday overnight.”

History shows that the first snow on Colorado Highway 82 can lead to accidents. Commuters are advised to use caution if snow becomes present.

For those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding, the first snow is always the harbinger of ski season.  

Aspen City Councilmember John Doyle, himself is an avid skier, said it’s hard not to get excited when the first snow comes to the valley.

“I do get excited,” Doyle said. “I am glad it has taken so long to get snow in town because if the snow comes early, it can be a bad sign for a season-long snowpack.”

Doyle said we can normally expect our first snow right around Halloween during a healthy season.

“I have some friends who have already been skiing in Montezuma Basin,” he said. “If there is enough snow, a lot of people will hike up Ajax, along with Highlands.”