Just when we thought spring had sprung, Mother Nature throws a curveball. Two U.S. states are bracing for a major snowstorm that’s anything but typical for this time of year. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for parts of Colorado and New Mexico, with forecasts calling for up to 16 inches of snow in some areas.
Yes, you read that right. It’s late April—days away from May—but the weather isn’t checking the calendar. This storm is packing a punch, and officials are urging residents to take it seriously. The warning states: “Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Check road conditions before heading out.”
Colorado: Up to 16 Inches Expected
In Colorado, the heaviest snow is expected in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Wet Mountains, Teller County, and the Rampart Range including Pikes Peak. Accumulations could reach 16 inches in some spots, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
New Mexico: 14 Inches Possible
New Mexico isn’t escaping the chill either. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains, along with Johnson and Bartlett Mesas including Raton Pass, could see up to 14 inches of snow. That’s a lot of white stuff for a region that’s usually soaking up spring sunshine by now.
While this storm might seem like a throwback to winter, it’s a stark reminder that weather can be unpredictable—and dangerous. Just last week, 6 states were on edge as extreme thunderstorms targeted the South, and now we’re talking snow. It’s that kind of season.
How to Stay Safe in the Snow
If you live in the affected areas, here’s what you need to know to stay safe:
- Stay home if possible. Only go out if absolutely necessary. Even experienced drivers can get into trouble on snow-covered roads.
- Drive slowly. Reduce your speed to match the conditions. Remember, it takes longer to stop on ice or snow.
- Accelerate and decelerate gently. Sudden moves can cause skids. Take your time getting up to speed and slowing down.
- Increase following distance. Leave five to six seconds of space between you and the car ahead. This gives you more time to react.
- Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, apply steady, firm pressure. Keep your heel on the floor and use the ball of your foot.
- Avoid stopping if you can. It takes more energy to start from a full stop than to keep rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep moving, do it.
- Don’t power up hills. Extra gas on snow just spins your wheels. Build momentum before the hill and let it carry you up. Then descend slowly.
- Don’t stop going uphill. Once you stop on an icy incline, getting moving again is a nightmare. Plan ahead.
This storm is a reminder that winter isn’t done yet, even as we inch toward May. For those in the path, stay safe, stay informed, and if you don’t have to go out—don’t. And for sports fans, this kind of weather can throw a wrench into outdoor plans, but it also creates some epic snow-day stories. Meanwhile, 10 states remain under a tornado watch as severe weather continues to march across the country. It’s a wild weather week, folks.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep an eye on the forecast. Spring will get here eventually—right?
