Denver, CO – Colorado is preparing for a surge of bitter winter weather as a strong Arctic Blast spreads across the Rockies and High Plains from Monday, Dec. 1 through Friday, Dec. 5, bringing a harsh Cold December pattern with snow, single-digit temperatures, and dangerous subzero wind chills, especially east of the Front Range.
According to the National Weather Service, early-week disturbances will bring snow showers and periods of blowing snow, particularly along the I-25 corridor, the Palmer Divide, and eastern Colorado. Mountain regions will see heavier, more persistent snow, while the plains may battle reduced visibility and drifting under strong northwest winds.
Temperatures will fall into the single digits across much of the state, with below-zero readings likely on the eastern plains and in higher-elevation valleys. Wind chills may drop between –10°F and –30°F during the coldest periods, posing risks for frostbite during early-morning and overnight hours. Denver may experience wind chills ranging from 0°F to –15°F.
NOAA’s 6–10 Day Temperature Outlook places Colorado inside a strong below-normal temperature anomaly for Dec. 1–5, consistent with the depth of the Arctic air mass dominating the central and western U.S. Additional snow showers remain possible midweek as reinforcing waves of cold air move through.
While no organized blizzard is currently forecast, the combination of blowing snow, icy roads, and subzero wind chills may create hazardous travel statewide. Motorists should use caution, especially in mountain passes and open plains where drifting will be most severe.
