Heavy Spring Snowfall Blankets Colorado

Latest storm dumps over a foot of snow across the state

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:37pm

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A powerful spring snowstorm has brought heavy snowfall to much of Colorado, with over a foot of accumulation reported in the Denver metro area and other parts of the state as of Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories and warnings across the region.

Why it matters

Late-season snowstorms can cause significant disruptions to daily life, transportation, and business operations in Colorado. This storm comes after an unusually dry winter, making the heavy, wet snow an added challenge for residents and infrastructure.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the Denver area has seen over 14 inches of snowfall as of 12:30 pm on Friday, with some higher totals reported in the surrounding suburbs and foothills. Other notable snow totals include 18 inches in Colorado Springs, 16 inches in Fort Collins, and 20 inches in the mountain town of Breckenridge.

  • The storm began on Thursday evening and is expected to continue through Friday night.
  • As of 12:30 pm on Friday, the National Weather Service had recorded the snow totals.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency that monitors and reports weather conditions across the United States.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service has warned that the heavy, wet snow could lead to power outages and dangerous driving conditions throughout the day on Friday. State and local officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for potential school and business closures.

The takeaway

This late-season snowstorm serves as a reminder that Colorado's weather can be unpredictable, even in the spring. The heavy snow is likely to cause significant disruptions, underscoring the importance of emergency preparedness and resilience for residents and businesses in the region.