The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has confirmed that after three years, warm currents are returning to the Pacific Ocean, and El Niño weather conditions are back. But what does water temperature in the Pacific have to do with Colorado? Much more than you’d think.
El Niño and La Niña currents are responsible for much of the weather and climate patterns we notice each year, even a thousand miles inland. After a few years of La Niña, this winter could feel a lot different in Colorado. Here’s what you should expect from the return of El Niño and how you can prepare for it.
What El Niño Means for Colorado Weather
El Niño currents primarily affect temperature and precipitation patterns. According to state climatologists and meteorologists, here’s what it might look like this year:
- Higher temperatures: Historically, El Niño patterns lead to slightly warmer winters in Colorado and further north. Expect fewer days below 0 degrees Fahrenheit this year.
- Wetter and snowier conditions in the fall and spring: This weather pattern often leads to more rain and snow in October-December and March-May. It’s time to prepare for those unexpected blizzards that Colorado loves to throw at residents.
- Potentially less snow in mid-winter: Snowfall may be less than average during the start of winter. Instead of precipitation peaking in January, it should remain consistent from October to April. Historical trends suggest that the average precipitation will likely be about seven inches every month.
In short, while temperatures may be slightly higher, expect it to be an early, wet, and snowy winter.
Preparing for El Niño Snows in Colorado
The projected snowfall is great for skiers and other winter sports enthusiasts, but it’s problematic for property owners. While no weather projection is perfectly accurate, it’s clear that businesses and individuals should prepare for heavy snow.
The best way to make sure you’re ready for whatever El Niño throws at you is to connect with a trusted snow removal service. Hall Landscape Contractors can help. Our fleet of plows, trucks, and ice mitigation equipment is at your service. We offer comprehensive snow and ice removal services for businesses in Douglas, Denver, and Arapahoe counties.
Don’t let the first snowstorm of the season catch you unaware. El Niño means that snow is likely to come early and often this year, so it’s crucial to make sure you have a plan for keeping sidewalks and parking lots safe and ice-free for your employees and visitors. Reach out to Hall Landscape Contractors today to discuss your routine and emergency commercial snow removal needs in the Denver area.