COLORADO, USA — The storm system moving through Colorado Tuesday will likely produce a variety of spring-like storm conditions -- everything from heavy snow and rain to snow squalls and thundersnow.
Winter Weather Advisories are already posted across the state for the snow, but outside of that, Snow Squall Warnings will also be possible.
Think of a snow squall as a mini blizzard that only lasts about 20 to 40 minutes.
They are quick and intense bursts of heavy snow accompanied by strong wind gusts. They only cover a small area, but they can reduce visibly to zero for anyone caught inside the squall.
An approaching snow squall can be visually stunning and ominous, characterized by a thick wall of snow out in front of the squall.
Snow squalls are possible in Colorado Tuesday afternoon and evening. They can happen anywhere, but the highest probability is in the mountains and on the Palmer Divide between Castle Pines and Monument Hill.
The National Weather Service will issue a snow squall warning when one is detected or reported. They say there is a long history of deadly traffic accidents associated with these intense snow events.
A snow squall that swept through the Steamboat Springs area in December shut down Highway 40 for several hours, but no major injuries were reported.
Traveling through a snow squall is not recommended, but if you do get caught inside one, reduce your speed, make sure your headlights are on, and try to exit the roadway if possible. You are even permitted to use your hazard lights in these dangerous situations.
It is also common to see lightning with a snow squall, because the clouds that create snow squalls are usually much taller than normal snowstorms.
There is a chance for thundersnow across Colorado Tuesday, even when snow squalls are not present.
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