Colorado’s winter drought stokes worries, despite weekend snowstorm

2 2 minutes read

Anu Koiv noticed pink flowers blooming on a viburnum shrub in her backyard in Gunbarrel in mid-January, a sight she hadn’t seen in the seven years she’s lived there. The unexpected burst of color, along with bees dancing on the flowers, was a delightful surprise for the 72-year-old retiree. The warm weather, with temperatures in the mid-50s in Boulder County, had pulled pollinators out of dormancy, creating a scene of vibrant life in the midst of winter.

Anu Koiv smells her blooming viburnum bush at her home in Gunbarrel, near Boulder, on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/JS)

Meanwhile, in Arvada, Susan Burgmaier was enjoying a game of pickleball at the Simms Street Recreation Center. The warm weather had allowed her to play outdoors for much of the fall and early winter, except on windy days. While the pleasant conditions were perfect for outdoor activities in the city, the high country was facing challenges as the Colorado ski industry struggled to salvage its season due to the lack of snow.

Melanie Mills, the president and CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA, expressed concerns about the impact of the warm and dry weather on ski visits. Despite a brief arctic blast bringing snow to the mountains, the overall dry weather pattern was a cause for worry, not just for the ski season but also for Colorado’s water supply and agricultural industries.

State Climatologist Russ Schumacher highlighted the unusual warmth that persisted into 2026, with record-high temperatures and low snowpack levels. The warm weather had affected ski resorts, outdoor recreation, and water resources across the state.

As the winter continued with below-average snowfall, ski resorts like Breckenridge Ski Resort faced challenges with thin snow cover and exposed ground. The lack of snow not only impacted the ski industry but also raised concerns about water availability for farms and cities that rely on snowmelt for their water supply.

Despite the uncertainties caused by the dry and warm weather, individuals like Dale Mauch and Nathan Elder remained hopeful and resilient in managing water resources for their farms and communities. While the impact of climate change on Colorado’s snowpack and water supply was a growing concern, there was still optimism for a turnaround in the weather patterns.

Amidst the challenges, some found silver linings in the unseasonably warm weather, with businesses adapting to the conditions and individuals like Nick Roberts embracing the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities in January. The unique weather patterns served as a reminder of the importance of resilience and adaptation in the face of changing climate conditions.

A sign warns of thin ice at Keystone Lake in Keystone on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026. The annual 9280 Pond Hockey Tournament held at the lake, scheduled for Jan. 23-25, was cancelled this year due to the thin ice. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/JS)

Conclusion

As the winter weather continued to present challenges for various industries and communities in Colorado, the resilience and adaptability of individuals and businesses shone through. While the dry and warm conditions raised concerns about water supply, agriculture, and outdoor recreation, there was a sense of optimism and hope for a turnaround in the weather patterns. The unseasonably warm weather served as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, adaptation, and appreciation for the changing climate conditions in the region.