Record-Breaking Cold Hits Colorado
Colorado experienced an icy morning on Friday, with several northern mountain towns plunging into sub-zero temperatures. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Boulder reported that some areas experienced lows below -20°F, significantly impacting residents and travelers alike.
Fraser Flats, located at 8,376 feet in Grand County, recorded a staggering low of -27°F, while nearby Tabernash reached -24°F. Other notably cold spots included South West Grand Lake at -20°F and Cowdrey at -17°F. The NWS attributes these frigid temperatures to clear skies and fresh snowfall, which caused cold air to settle in low-lying areas.
Communities across the state braced for the unusual cold snap, with conditions described as typical for the “Ice Boxes of Colorado,” a title shared with Gunnison and Alamosa. The extreme weather served as a reminder of Colorado’s potential for record-breaking temperatures; the state’s all-time low of -61°F was recorded in Maybell in 1985, while February 1, 1985, also holds a poignant place in history with its severe chill.
In Denver, the record low for November 29 stands at -18°F, recorded in 1877. The current weather pattern emphasizes the need for residents to prepare for the cold, whether it involves heating systems, winter clothing, or travel precautions.
Residents throughout Colorado are encouraged to stay informed and heed weather advisories as temperatures remain unusually low, transforming everyday activities into challenges amid the bitter cold.
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