Denver Braces for Snowstorm on Friday

Up to a foot of snow expected in the mountains, with several inches possible in the metro area.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

A snowstorm brewing in Colorado's mountains is set to reach the Denver area on Friday, with the National Weather Service forecasting snow accumulations between 11 p.m. Thursday and 4 a.m. Saturday. The strongest chance for winter weather will be from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, as temperatures drop from the high 60s on Thursday to the low 30s by Friday morning.

Why it matters

Significant snowfall in the Denver metro area can disrupt travel, school schedules, and daily routines, making this an important weather event to track. The storm is also expected to bring heavy snow to the Colorado mountains, which could impact ski resorts and outdoor recreation.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the Denver area can expect traces to 1/2 inch of snow on the northern Colorado Eastern Plains, including in Crook and Sterling, by Saturday morning. In the mountains, snowfall amounts are expected to accumulate between 5 a.m. Wednesday and 5 a.m. Saturday, with up to a foot of snow possible.

  • Snow will be possible in Denver between 11 p.m. Thursday and 4 a.m. Saturday, with the strongest chance from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.
  • Temperatures in Denver are expected to drop from the high 60s on Thursday to the low 30s by Friday morning.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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The takeaway

This snowstorm is a reminder for Denver residents to be prepared for winter weather, with potential impacts on travel, school, and daily activities. Monitoring the latest forecasts and weather advisories will be crucial in the coming days.