Just when we thought spring was finally here, winter is showing it’s not ready to give up yet. A storm is making its way through Colorado, bringing snow, strong winds, and chilly temperatures to Pueblo through Wednesday, April 2nd. Whether you have errands to run or you’re hunkering down at home, here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared during this wintery blast.
What’s Coming Your Way:
The storm has already started making itself known, bringing rain that will quickly change over to snow as temperatures drop. Pueblo could see up to 4 inches of snow by Wednesday evening, but that’s not the only concern. Along with the snow, strong winds gusting up to 40 MPH will make things feel much colder and create blowing snow, reducing visibility and making travel tricky. It’s not just about the snow accumulation, it’s the wind and cold that will make this storm dangerous.
It’s going to feel like winter all over again—temperatures will hover around freezing, and with the wind chill, it’ll feel even colder. You’ll want to bundle up if you have to be outside. It’s not just uncomfortable weather; it could be downright dangerous if you’re caught unprepared.
Why This Is a Big Deal:
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Travel Will Be Risky: If you need to drive, think twice. The combination of snow and wind will make the roads icy and slippery, and the blowing snow will quickly obscure your view. It’s going to be tough to see, and visibility could drop to near zero at times. Bridges, overpasses, and other elevated roads will freeze faster, so be extra cautious in those areas. If you don’t absolutely need to be on the road, it’s best to stay home. But if you do have to travel, slow down, keep your distance from other vehicles, and make sure your car is stocked with the essentials like an emergency kit, blankets, and some snacks.
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It’s Cold—Really Cold: Even though we’re technically in spring, the cold will make it feel like winter. Wind chills will make it feel well below freezing, so exposure to the cold—even for a short time—can lead to frostbite. If you need to go outside, be sure to layer up. Wear a warm coat, gloves, scarf, and insulated boots. The wind will be biting, so cover as much exposed skin as you can. When in doubt, stay inside as much as possible.
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Blowing Snow Makes It Worse: The wind isn’t just an annoyance—it’s going to make the snow swirl around, reducing visibility and creating dangerous conditions for anyone out and about. It won’t just be a little snow on the ground, it’ll be blowing across roads and streets, making everything much harder to navigate. Pedestrians and drivers alike should take extra care, especially when conditions get worse. If you can’t see clearly, pull over or take cover until things improve.
How to Stay Safe:
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Avoid Traveling If You Can: If you don’t have to be anywhere, stay put. Roads are going to be icy, and visibility will be poor, so it’s not worth the risk. If you do need to drive, make sure your car is ready for the weather—check your tires, windshield wipers, and make sure you have enough gas. It’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle—things like water, a flashlight, snacks, and a blanket can make all the difference if you get stuck.
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Bundle Up: Even though it’s spring, temperatures are still below freezing, and that means you need to dress warmly. Layer up with thick socks, a winter coat, a hat, and gloves. Wear boots to keep your feet dry and warm. The wind chill is no joke—it’ll make the cold feel even worse, so the more you can cover up, the better. Don’t forget about your face and neck, as frostbite can happen quickly if they’re exposed to the elements.
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Prepare for Possible Power Outages: Snow and wind often mean power outages, so it’s a good idea to prepare. Charge your phone and any other devices now, and make sure you have a flashlight on hand in case the lights go out. Extra blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable food are good to have just in case, too. If you rely on electricity for medical equipment or heating, make sure you have a backup plan.
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Stay Informed: Weather conditions can change rapidly, so keep an eye on local forecasts. Things might shift quickly, and you’ll want to know if the storm is getting worse or if there are any new advisories in your area. Local news stations and weather apps are great resources to stay up-to-date on what’s happening outside.
Why Is This Happening?
This storm is part of a larger system moving through the Rocky Mountains. Low-pressure systems like these bring moisture and cold air together, making for the perfect storm to bring snow to lower elevations. The wind is being caused by atmospheric pressure differences that pull strong gusts into the area, making conditions worse than they would be otherwise. It’s the combination of these elements that makes this storm dangerous—snow, wind, and cold all coming together.
Spring is officially here, but winter is making one final push. If you’re in Pueblo, expect snow, strong winds, and frigid temperatures through Wednesday. The best advice is to stay inside if you can, but if you need to be outside, take all the precautions you can. Dress warmly, avoid traveling if possible, and stay updated on the weather as conditions change.
