2 Feet of Snow May Not End Colorado's Severe Drought

Parts of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming are anticipating late-April and early May snowfalls, with the Colorado Rockies expected to receive up to two feet in the highest elevations. This precipitation is arriving amidst a severe snow drought, with the 2025-2026 season experiencing near-record low snowpack across Colorado. Meteorologists note that while every bit of precipitation helps, this incoming snow is unlikely to significantly alleviate the long-term drought.

The snow drought is considered very serious, with some areas in Colorado in an exceptional drought category. Although late-season snow is not unusual for Colorado's mountains, warmer temperatures this time of year mean much of it may not accumulate or last. Ski areas like Arapahoe Basin and Copper Mountain are still open but plan to close soon, unlike in previous years when Arapahoe Basin often stayed open into June.

This lack of snow directly impacts water storage, a critical resource in the arid West. Melted snow typically provides significant moisture for rivers, streams, and reservoirs throughout the summer. With less snowpack, there will be reduced water availability for plants, animals, agriculture, and human consumption, potentially leading to more water restrictions. Experts express hope for wetter conditions later in the year due to an El Niño pattern and potential summer thunderstorms.