Denver, Colorado – New Year’s Day is starting off mostly quiet across the Front Range, but conditions will turn more active in the mountains later today as snow develops by afternoon. While the high country sees winter travel concerns, the plains remain mild and dry with temperatures well above seasonal norms.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, cloud cover will increase across northern Colorado today, with snow developing in the mountains by early to mid-afternoon. Accumulating snow is expected mainly above pass level, impacting areas along the Continental Divide and higher elevations west of the Front Range. Lower elevations, including Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Greeley, are expected to stay dry.
Mountain locations such as Berthoud Pass, Loveland Pass, and higher terrain near Winter Park and Rocky Mountain National Park could see snow-covered roads and reduced visibility late today and into the evening. While snowfall rates are not expected to be extreme, slick travel conditions may develop quickly as temperatures cool in the high country.
Across the urban corridor, mostly cloudy skies dominate, but mild air keeps afternoon highs in the 50s and low 60s. These temperatures are well above normal for early January and will limit any precipitation to rain-free conditions on the plains. Winds remain light, adding to the manageable weather for New Year’s Day travel across the Front Range.
Drivers heading west into the mountains later today should plan for changing conditions, allow extra time, and check CDOT road updates before departure. Even light mountain snow can create hazards on untreated roads and mountain passes.
Looking ahead, snow chances linger in the mountains into Friday, while the plains continue to see relatively mild and quiet weather heading into the weekend. No widespread advisories are in effect for the Front Range, but mountain travel impacts remain the primary concern through tonight.
This setup delivers a split New Year’s Day across northern Colorado, with winter conditions returning to the high country and springlike temperatures holding firm along the I-25 corridor.
