April 30, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week: REVIEW!We're getting closer to the primetime of severe weather season here in Colorado as we round out April today. Make sure you scroll through the previous blog entries and review your storm safety rules. It's a lot to remember, as we're faced with everything from hail to flash floods, and tornadoes to lightning here in our state. You might want to print these blog entries out so you have a reference. We'll archive them online here at theDENVERchannel.com for you too.
This cool and unsettled weather pattern we've been under has been excellent news to slow the melting of our snowpack. Many locations have even added to the snowpack! If you are one who likes cooler/wet weather...enjoy this while it lasts. It's just a matter of time before we hit the dry, warm to hot, long days of late spring and early summer.
Have a great weekend! Stay with 7NEWS and theDENVERchannel for all your weather information.
April 29, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week: Wind & Hail Safety and Information!WINDWind is a huge threat in Colorado that may not get the attention of a tornado or flash flood event. Straight-line winds from a thunderstorm can be as strong as a hurricane or tornado, and cause great harm and damage to life and property.
Another wind threat is the downburst wind. Precipitation in the thunderstorm cools the surrounding air and makes for a pocket of cold air relative to the surrounding environment. Cold air is dense and wants to sink. It does so in the form of a downburst. As this air slams into the ground, it then spreads out from the area of impact. In extreme cases, speeds can reach 100 MPH! If this happens in an area of 2.5 miles across or less, it's called a microburst. When 2.5 miles across or greater it's called a macroburst. These are a HUGE threat to pilots, and have even been responsible for airline crashes. The best thing to do when thunderstorms approach is to get indoors.
HAILHail is formed from water droplets that remain liquid once above the freezing level in the cloud. (this droplet would be referred to as supercooled) The turbulence in the cloud makes the droplet move about, growing in size as layers of ice form on the supercooled water droplet. The stronger the updraft in the storm, the longer these stay suspended in the cloud...and the larger the droplets (now hailstones) grow. When the weight overcomes the strength of the updraft, hail falls to Earth. Hailstones can range in size from pea to grapefruit.
Crops, buildings, cars, animals, and people can all sustain loss from hail.
The Front Range and adjacent plains of Colorado and Wyoming have a large frequency of hailstorms compared to much of the nation and world, largely in part due to the elevation and topography. Hail season in the Front Range begins in March and lasts through October. June is often a peak time for hail events.
Remember, hail with a diameter of 3/4" or greater meets the criteria for a severe thunderstorm. You should always report large hail to your local law enforcement agency who will relay the report to the National Weather Service. This information can be invaluable in the tracking of severe storms, and the issuance of warnings. You are always welcome to send your storm reports to us here in the 24/7 Weather Center in addition.
When hail is likely, get into sturdy shelter. Hail can fall at incredible speeds, even smaller hail. These "ice missiles" can injure and even kill.
Have a great weekend and thanks for reading today's blog entry!
April 28, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week: Tornadoes and Tornado Safety!It might be cool and wet today, down right wintry in some areas...but the season for tornadoes is here, and now is the time to review safety rules and information, regardless of the present weather outside.
The month of May is when severe weather season really gets going here in Colorado, with the peak for tornadoes in June, and the threat lasting through August. As you might recall from last year, they can occur in other months too, such as the landspouts that touched down near Brighton in October 2004.
By far the largest number of tornadoes in Colorado occur east of I-25, and almost 90% happen between 1-9 pm. But it is important to note that they can occur at any hour, and anywhere within the state. Most tornadoes are weak, meaning top wind speeds are 110 MPH or less, with lifespans of less than 10 minutes.
Here are some safety rules that apply to home, work, school, or outdoors...
The safest place to be is in a well-built structure, in the basement, storm cellar or saferoom. If none of these are available where you are, move to the interior of the structure, either in a hallway or small room such as a closet, on the lowest floor. Cover yourself with blankets or get under heavy furniture to protect yourself from flying debris. LEAVE MOBILE HOMES FOR MORE STURDY SHELTER. In places with large, poorly supported roof spans, such as in shopping centers or gymnasiums...seek the designated tornado shelter, often the bathrooms. If there is no time to locate these places, dive under a table or desk to protect yourself as best you can from flying debris. If driving, never seek shelter under an overpass/viaduct. These can be a collection point for debris, and actually cause higher windspeeds. Simply drive away from the tornado at a 90 degree (right) angle. If the tornado is coming too fast for you to safely get away, abandon the vehicle and lie face down in a dry ditch or culvert, as far away from the vehicle as possible. COVER YOUR HEAD.
Most importantly, stay informed! Watch us here on 7NEWS and check theDENVERchannel.com for the latest forecast details. When severe weather threatens, we'll let you know and keep you as informed as possible between our resources here on the weather page, the weather line, the 24/7 Weather Alert ticker and crawl on your tv screen, and our weathercasts.
You must be responsible for you own safety. This means knowing the safety rules, developing a plan of action for all locations you might be at each day (i.e. school, work, home) and keeping abreast of the latest forecast information.
Stay right here with your 24/7 Weather Center Team and together, we'll make it through the storms!
April 27, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week: Flood and Flash Flood Safety!Severe Weather Awareness week in Colorado continues, and today's topic is about flood and flash floods.
There is a difference between a flood and a flash flood. A flood is often associated with rivers, and here in Colorado, most often happen due to rapid snowmelt; often in the months of May and June. These can be predicted usually, giving time for citizens to move to higher ground if necessary. Another example of the flood would be back east, either after snowmelt or due to a soggy weather system. Flood waters, say on the Mississippi River, roll down stream, and often citizens can be warned of rising water several days in advance.
Here in Colorado, we most often deal with the flash flood, which is
a dangerous and sudden rise in water along a creek, wash, river, or a dry land area. Flash floods can be caused by ice jams, snowmelt, dam failures, or more commonly here in our state...the slow moving thunderstorm.
Flash flood season in Colorado runs typically from May through September, with July and August being the peak months. The entire state is prone to flash flood events.
Something people very often find surprising is how strong of a force fast moving water can be. A swift moving stream of water just several inches deep can carry boulders, automobiles, bridges, and rip trees right out of the ground. So just image what it might do to a human caught in flash flood waters?
Here is a bit on flood and flash flood watches and warnings if issued for your area...
Flash Flood or Flood Watch -- simply go about your plans, but WATCH...and know your plan of action should flooding conditions occur. Flash Flood or Flood Warning -- Either flooding conditions have already been reported, or are imminent. You need to immediately stop what you are doing, assess the situation, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. If you ever catch yourself in a flooding situation immediately seek higher ground or climb to safety before access is cut off by floodwaters.
Here are some safety rules to follow during flash flood season...
Don't camp or park your vehicle along creeks and washes, especially when threatening conditions are present. If you are near a river or body of water, be aware of the water levels and have a plan for seeking higher ground in place should you need it. Never enter an area that is already flooded. Too many times we've seen people drive into areas that are already flooded. You have no way of knowing if the road is still there, and just how deep the water is. As little as 6" of moving water can carry a car. Remember...vehicles will float engine down...and within seconds you can find yourself in extreme danger. Nearly half of all flood fatalities are vehicle related. Be aware that erosion from swift moving water can cause the banks to become unstable. If you are walking along a stream, creek, or river...you could trigger a landslide if the earth has become unstable. Never walk through flowing water on foot if the water level is at or above your knees. Keep children away from high water, storm drains, viaducts, and arroyos. Be especially careful at night, when it may be difficult to see flood dangers.
There have been numerous Colorado flood events through history. I've highlighted a few for you below...
July 9, 1953 (Heavy rain in Montclair and Mayfair areas east of Denver caused over $1 million dollars in damage. 3.9" of rain fell at Lowry AFB, while only a trace fell in north Denver, Lakewood, Golden, and Englewood.) May 9-15, 1957 (Denver and Frederick, 3 killed) June 14-20, 1965 (Flooding in the South Platte and Arkansas River Basins, 21 killed) July 31-August 1, 1976 (Big Thompson Canyon, at least 139 killed) July 9, 1996 (Pueblo, 2 killed) July 12, 1996 (Buffalo Creek) July 28, 1997 (Fort Collins, 5 killed)
Sadly, those are just a few of the numerous floods documented in Colorado's weather history.
There is one thing we can say for certain...
THERE WILL BE MORE DANGEROUS FLASH FLOODS IN COLORADO. SOME EVEN ON THE ORDER OF A FORT COLLINS OR BIG THOMPSON EVENT.What we can't say is when. So please study the information above, and have your plan of action for home, work, and all outdoor events.
As always...you can trust the 24/7 Weather Center here at 7NEWS for all the latest weather information. We'll keep working hard for you so you can stay ahead of the storm!
April 26, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week: Lightning and Lightning Safety!Thunderstorms produce some of the most powerful weather on Earth, including hail, tornadoes and strong winds. One of the most dangerous aspects to a thunderstorm, however, is
lightning.Over the last decade in Colorado, lightning has been the #1 killer over all thunderstorm hazards, including flash floods. We average 3 fatalities and 18 injuries each year.
Lightning is also a major cause of forest and rangeland fires in Colorado. These "dry lightning" flashes comes from thunderstorms with little or no rainfall.
TRIVIA: How many cloud to ground (CG) flashes hit the ground each year in Colorado? Nationwide? The answers will amaze you! Read to the end of this blog entry to find out the answer. Each bolt of lightning contains millions of volts of electricity...enough in fact to supply power to several homes for a month or more! As lightning travels through the air, it heats the surrounding air molecules up to 50 thousand degrees Fahrenheit, creating a shock wave that we hear as thunder. It can be up to 1" in diameter. It's thought lightning occurs most frequently during the afternoon and evening hours.
Lightning is unpredictable...sometimes striking an object and leaving another one nearby untouched. Often lightning will hit a tall object like a tree, and then travel down the object, hitting anything in its path. We saw a good example of this recently west of Fort Collins. Lightning struck a tree and traveled down the trunk, through the root system, and into a house...damaging glass inside and injuring a little girl. As the lightning traveled through the root system of the tree it blew up the earth, leaving a trench in the yard.
Most lightning deaths occur outdoors, usually under tall objects such as trees, on hilltops, or in the water.
Did you know lightning can travel up to 20 miles away from a thunderstorm?In a state like Colorado, where so many residents and visitors are enjoying the beautiful outdoors during thunderstorm season...its good to know the following method of estimating your distance from lightning. We refer to this as the
"FLASH TO BANG" technique. To employ...
Count the number of seconds from the time you see the lightning, to the time you hear the thunder strike
Every 5 seconds equals about 1 mile. You should begin to seek shelter if the time between the flash and rumble of thunder is 30 seconds or less. Activities should remain on hold until 30 minutes after the last audible thunder. This is sometimes called the
"30/30" rule.
Some additional safety rules...
Stay off corded telephones (lightning can travel through phone lines trying to ground itself) Unplug sensitive electronics, such as computers Stay away from electrical devices Get out of the bath or shower, lightning can travel through plumbing Get off rivers and lakes and out of pools Always stay away from metal objects as they become excellent conductors of electricity
The best thing you can do is plan ahead! If you have an outing coming up, watch 7NEWS for the latest forecast information and check theDENVERchannel.com to reference our new online weather resources. You can access the next 36 hours of forecast information from our exclusive FutureCast model ran right here in the 24/7 Weather Center.
Click here to view now!Although a thunderstorm can always pop-up from what seems like out of no where, our exclusive FutureCast will give you an idea of what to expect in terms of wind and precipitation chances.
You can also check our daily forecast discussion and exclusive 7-Day forecast to help you make your plans. And as always, you can call or email the 24/7 Weather Center.
So let's review some safety rules if a thunderstorm threatens and you are out and about.
Seek shelter in a building or an enclosed vehicle with a metal roof (make sure all windows are closed) Never seek shelter under a tree or small group of trees In a heavily forested area, seek shelter in a low spot and away from the taller trees, but avoid areas that might be prone to the #2 Colorado severe weather hazard...flash flooding If caught out in the open, DO NOT lie flat on the ground...INSTEAD...squat low to the ground and clasp your hands around your knees, with your chin to your chest (this makes you the smallest target possible and minimizes your contact with the ground
Here in Colorado, every county is prone to CG (cloud to ground) lightning flashes, but 5 counties rank higher than others in terms of yearly strikes. In order from the highest, these are Las Animas, El Paso, Elbert, Lincoln, and Rio Blanco. Weld, Pueblo, Park, Mesa, and Moffat Counties rank the 6th through 10th highest. So as you can see, it's not just one area of Colorado, nor one favored elevation that is at the most risk for CG flashes.
So have fun outdoors this summer, but plan ahead...know what the weather will be like...and keep an eye out for building thunderstorms. Learn the safety rules and have a plan of action ready in case you find yourself caught out in the storm.
You still have time to register for one of the 24/7 Weather Center's two upcoming severe weather seminars, featuring some of the best local scientists in town! We'd like to extend an invitation for you to attend. Each seminar is free and open to the public. For more information,
Click here!TRIVIA ANSWER: Nearly 500,000 in Colorado and approximately 22 million in the USA! April 25, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week: Watches and Warnings!It's Severe Weather Awareness week here in Colorado, and today's topic is...Watches and Warnings!
A number of agencies within the National Weather Service are busy at work each day helping you protect life and property when severe weather threatens. One such agency is the Storm Prediction Center located in Norman, Oklahoma.
The Storm Prediction Center forecasts the chances for severe weather across the United States. They issue severe thunderstorm and tornado watches for areas of potential danger. Another type of watch you will see over the coming few months is a flash flood watch. This means that conditions are right for thunderstorms that will drop heavy amounts of rain over a small area, in a short period of time.
When any type of watch is issued for your area, it means just that...WATCH! You should go about your normal activities, but have that plan of action in place should severe weather strike. Some good questions to ask yourself would be, "Where will I go at my current location in the event of severe weather?"..."How am I going to get local watches and warnings at my current location?"
Forecasters at your local National Weather Service office will monitor a variety of tools, including satellite and radar, as well as communicating with severe weather spotters, to decide if warnings are needed in a watch area. Should a warning be issued, it is sent out via numerous forms of communication, including to us here at the 24/7 Weather Center. We will then alert you immediately with either a crawl at the bottom of the screen for things like a flash flood or severe thunderstorm warning, or in the event of a tornado warning, with a break into programming.
A warning means that dangerous weather is occurring or imminent for a particular area. Here are some criteria for various warnings you might be faced with this summer here in Colorado...
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING -- ISSUED FOR WIND GUSTS OF 58 MPH OR GREATER...OR HAIL OF AT LEAST THREE QUARTERS OF AN INCH IN DIAMETER. TORNADO WARNING -- ISSUED WHEN TORNADOES ARE IMMINENT OR OCCURRING. FLASH FLOOD WARNING -- ISSUED FOR RAPIDLY DEVELOPING LIFE THREATENING FLOODING.
When a watch or warning of any kind is issued for Colorado, you can find the information right here on theDENVERchannel.com by clicking on our new Watches and Warnings page.
Click here to view now!You might want to bookmark this page for easy access in the future. Periodically refresh the page when viewing just to make sure you have the most current data displayed.
We'll also run the crawl at the bottom of your screen periodically when watches are in effect for our area, to keep you ahead of the storm. As flash flood or severe thunderstorm warnings come into the 24/7 Weather Center from the National Weather Service, we will immediately run our crawl to alert you. Tornado warnings will also run on the crawler, and if within our viewing area, programming will be briefly interrupted to warn you of the storm.
I know when we have to interrupt programming for a tornado warning, it can be frustrating for someone in Jefferson County when tornadoes might be occurring in Central Arapahoe County or Washington County. Please understand that this is our duty as a media outlet. When severe weather is happening this summer, we just ask for your patience and your best thoughts for our friends in the affected areas as storms pass through Colorado. Together, we'll all get through this time of year as informed and safely as possible!
If you are away from your television and computer, remember our weather line at 303-832-0247 and our radio partners...
AM 1430, KEZW The Mountain, 99.5 FM KOSI 101.1 FM ALICE 105.9 FM
Another good item to own is a NOAA Weather Radio. These can run off battery or electricity and are great for when outdoors or if the power goes out.
Be weatherwise this summer and don't get caught off guard. Know your resources for getting watch and warning information, what they mean, and what your plan of action for each will be.
The 24/7 Weather Center will be here working day and night to help keep you ahead of the storm. If you have any questions or need more information, don't hesitate to contact us. 303-832-0291 or email weather@theDENVERchannel.com anytime!
Just in time for Severe Weather Awareness Week, the 24/7 Weather Center has two upcoming severe weather seminars, featuring some of the best local scientists in town! We'd like to extend an invitation for you to attend. Each seminar is free and open to the public. For more information,
Click here!Have a
fantastic week ahead, and thank you kindly for making 7NEWS your choice for news, weather, and sports information!
April 24, 2005 -- Severe Weather Awareness Week in Colorado!The storms we had across northeast Colorado last week were just a sign of things to come as Colorado heads toward Severe Weather Season!
To better prepare you for the spring and summer hazards that lie ahead, this week is dedicated to learning more about severe weather, developing preparedness plans, and testing vital communications equipment.
Each day starting tomorrow and ending Saturday, a different severe weather topic will be discussed in depth.
Topics to be discussed...
Monday, April 25 -- Watches and Warnings Tuesday, April 26 -- Lightning and Lightning Safety Wednesday, April 27 -- Flood and Flash Flood Safety Thursday, April 28 -- Tornadoes and Tornado Safety Friday, April 29 -- Downburst Wind and Hail Saturday, April 30 -- A Review of the Week
So check theDENVERchannel.com each day and tell your friends, family, and co-workers to drop by too. The more you know and understand Colorado weather, the better off you will be when the next storm strikes.
Just in time for Severe Weather Awareness Week, the 24/7 Weather Center has two upcoming severe weather seminars, featuring some of the best local scientists in town! We'd like to extend an invitation for you to attend. Each seminar is free and open to the public. For more information,
Click here!Have a great week, and thanks for making 7NEWS and the 24/7 Weather Center your choice for news, weather, and sports information!
April 23, 2005 -- The Full Pink Moon!At 4:06 am MDT tomorrow (April 24) the moon will be 100% full, though it might be hard to see as clouds increase ahead of the next storm system.
April's full moon is called The Full Pink Moon, named from the herb moss pink, or wild ground phlox, which is one of the earliest widespread wildflowers of the spring. Other names given to this month's full moon by early Indian tribes include...
The Full Sprouting Grass Moon The Egg Moon
Coastal tribes would call it The Full Fish Moon, for it was often around this time when the shad would come upstream to spawn.
If you've missed the 24/7 Weather Center's Prime Time Special,
Storm Season, you have one last chance to see it on 7NEWS tonight! It will air at 6 PM.
Comcast Digital Cable customers will be able to catch it on Channel 247 next week between 9-10 PM, April 25-29.
We'd also like to extend an invitiation for you to attend one of the 2 free upcoming severe weather seminars, brought to you by the 24/7 Weather Center. For more information,
Click here!April 22, 2005 -- Got Weekend Plans?We have a really nice start to the weekend underway with sunshine and temperatures moderating slightly to the low and mid 60s by tomorrow.
As the next system approaches the state from California we'll see an increase of clouds for the second half of the weekend with precipitation making a return to the state by late Sunday. We'll stay in the 55-65 degree range through the middle of next week. This is at or slightly below the average high of 63 for this time of year.
Happy Earth Day to you today! Have a great weekend and keep it here on theDENVERchannel.com and 7NEWS all weekend for the latest weather information.
Don't forget to catch our Prime Time Weather Special, Storm Season, re-airing tonight on 7NEWS at 10:35 PM, and at 6 PM on Saturday.
We'd also like to extend an invitiation for you to attend one of the 2 free upcoming severe weather seminars, brought to you by the 24/7 Weather Center. For more information,
Click here!April 21, 2005 -- How You Can Stay Ahead of the Next Storm!Quiet weather is in store for the area after last night's powerful thunderstorms. Yesterday was just the beginning of our severe weather season which doesn't peak until June! We have designed many ways you can get the severe weather information you need to protect your property and family when the next round of storms strike.
Next week is severe weather awareness week here in Colorado, and each day, we'll highlight and discuss a new topic right here on theDENVERchannel.com's weather page.
If you missed our Prime Time Weather Special on Tuesday night, don't worry, we have 3 more opportunities for you to catch it.
Friday, April 22 at 10:35 PM Saturday, April 23 at 6:00 PM Each day April 25-29, from 9-10 pm, on Comcast Digital Cable Channel 247
Two upcoming severe weather seminars will feature some of the best local experts giving you invaluable information on flash floods, tornadoes, and more. The seminars are free and open to the public. We just ask that you RSVP.
Thursday, April 28, at the Radisson Hotel (Parker Road/I-225) Tuesday, May 3, at the University Park Holiday Inn in Fort Collins
For more information,
Click here!On the web, check out our new 36 hour Future Cast and graphical views of watches and warnings. Links to these can be found under the 7-Day forecast on our weather page.
Are you enjoying this daily weather blog? We'd like to hear your comments. Send them in an email to weather@thedenverchannel.com!
April 20, 2005, 10:34 PM - Tools to Stay Ahead of the Next Storm!The 24/7 Weather Center has been on alert for you all evening long, and we're watching a severe storm in Yuma and Phillips County at this late hour. Very large destructive hail has fallen from this storm, so if you are in or near Holyoke, Wages, Pleasant Valley, Paoli, Amherst, Clarkville, Wauneta, or Alvin, keep abreast of the weather situation.
We're working day and night here at 7NEWS to provide you with the tools you need to stay ahead of the next storm.
If you missed our Prime Time Weather Special on Tuesday night, don't worry, we have 3 more opportunities for you to catch it.
Friday, April 22 at 10:35 PM Saturday, April 23 at 6:00 PM Each day April 25-29, from 9-10 pm, on Comcast Digital Cable Channel 247
Two upcoming severe weather seminars will feature some of the best local experts giving you invaluable information on flash floods, tornadoes, and more. The seminars are free and open to the public. We just ask that you RSVP.
Thursday, April 28, at the Radisson Hotel (Parker Road/I-225) Tuesday, May 3, at the University Park Holiday Inn in Fort Collins
For more information,
Click here!On the web, check out our new 36 hour Future Cast and graphical views of watches and warnings. Links to these can be found under the 7-Day forecast on our weather page.
Stay with us here at 7NEWS, we're working for you!
April 20, 2005, 9:10 PM - Stormy Night!The severe weather has pushed east of the Denver Metro Area at this hour, with a severe thunderstorm watch remaining in effect over the far northeast counties until 2 AM. As of 9 pm the severe storms are located west of Wray.
The reports of hail this evening are too numerous to list, but I'll highlight some of the largest...
1.75" reports from 18 miles south of Akron, in Woodlin School (Washington County), at DIA, and 1 mile south of Deer Trail 1.50" 2 miles north of Woodrow that accumulated one inch deep 1.00" hail south of Strasburg that broke car windshields
We've had waves of rain with embedded hail here at the 24/7 Weather Center, where 0.35" of precipitation has fallen through the evening.
April 20, 2005, 7:45 PM - Severe Thunderstorm Watch Until 2 AM!Our stormy night continues with a severe thunderstorm watch posted by the Storms Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, until 2 AM. This watch box includes the following counties in northeast Colorado...
Sedgwick Logan Morgan Phillips Washington Yuma Weld
Strong winds, heavy rain, dangerous lightning, and hail to 2" in diameter are all possible. Keep your computer right here and your TV on 7NEWS for the latest.
April 20, 2005, 7:28 PM - Numerous Severe Storms over the Area!Its getting busy in the 24/7 Weather Center with numerous counties now under severe thunderstorm warnings.
Eastern Adams, Eastern Arapahoe, and Southern Washington Counties until 8:15 PM (including Shamrock, Deer Trail, and Last Chance) North-central Elbert and South-Central Weld Counties until 8:00 PM (including Agate, Kersey, and Evans) Central Denver, Western Adams, and NW Arapahoe Counties until 7:45 PM (including DIA, Commerce City, and Montbello)
Watch for dangerous lightning, heavy downpours, hail, and strong winds. Stay right here on the web and with 7NEWS on your television for the most timely and in-depth severe weather coverage this evening.
April 20, 2005, 7:18 PM - Severe Storms over Eastern Denver Metro!A severe storm is moving over the eastern portions of the Denver Metro with warnings out for Central Denver, Western Adams, and NW Arapahoe County until 7:45 PM. The 24/7 Weather Center had hail falling for about 2 minutes at 7:08 PM. Storms continue east of town with warnings for Eastern Arapahoe County until 7:30 PM. Heavy storms have moved through Byers within the last 30 minutes.
April 20, 2005, 6:45 PM - Severe Storms East of Denver!The warning for Central Adams County has been allowed to expire, but Central Arapahoe and North Central Elbert continue with a severe thunderstorm warning until 7 PM. This is a very strong storm, residents of Byers can expect the brunt to pass through between now and 7 PM.
April 20, 2005, 6:31 PM - Severe Storms East of Denver!A line of severe storms stretches from Central Adams County down into North Central Elbert County. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings cover these areas through 7 PM. Travel on I-70 and highways immediately east of Denver will be slow. Watch for possible flooding across roadways from heavy storm runoff.
April 20, 2005, 6:21 PM - Severe T-Storm Over North Central Arapahoe & Central Adams Counties!The severe thunderstorm east of Denver continues to plaque our friends in North Central Arapahoe and Central Adams Counties. A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 6:45 PM. Residents in or near Leader, Strasburg, and Byers can expect very heavy rain, damaging winds, large hail, and deadly lightning. Stay inside and away from windows until the storm passes. The 24/7 Weather Center appreciates any storm reports via phone 303-832-0291 or email, Mike_Nelson@kmgh.com!
April 20, 2005, 6:06 PM - Severe Thunderstorm Warning over Central Arapahoe County!A very strong storm is over Byers and is moving north at this time. Look for very heavy rain along I-70 between Bennett and Byers with hail and strong winds also likely. Heavy rain falling in a short period of time can make for heavy runoff, so watch out for this on the roadways. I'll have the latest weather in 10 minutes on 7NEWS at 6 PM.
April 20, 2005, 5:46 PM - Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Central Arapahoe County!A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for Central Arapahoe County until 6:15 PM. A storm was located near Country Gardens with heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds. All other warnings have been dropped but some heavy rains are moving through town. Take it slow on the roads and watch for splashback.
April 20, 2005, 5:19 PM - Severe Thunderstorm Warnings!Developing showers and storms over Metro Denver have gone severe due to the threat of hail near Denver International Airport and Barr Lake and near Elizabeth. Until 5:45 PM a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for Northwestern Elbert, Northeaster Douglas, Western Adams, and Northeastern Denver Counties in the Denver Metro Area.
Again, the main threat is hail of 3/4" or greater in diameter along with gusty winds and brief heavy rain.
April 20, 2005, 4:55 PM - Watching the Skies!The 24/7 Weather Center remains on alert watching the skies for you this afternoon. The lack of afternoon heating really cut off the chances for a widespread severe weather outbreak over the region today, but enough ingredients remain in place to produce some showers and even a thunderstorm.
Here at the Channel 7 Studio at Speer and Lincoln, we have had light rain with very small hail falling during the part hour, and hail was reported at I-25 and Colfax recently. Be careful on your commute home and stay with 7NEWS for the latest.
April 20, 2005, 3:05 PM - Severe Weather Threat Lower, But Not Gone!A very persistent low-level upslope flow has kept Denver and the northeast plains socked in with cloud cover, really limiting the afternoon heating we needed for a severe thunderstorm outbreak. However some potent upper level energy passing overhead this evening could still touch off a few storms that could be strong to severe. Hail will be the main threat.
The days are longer now and afternoon heating can continue for another 1-2 hours...so keep an eye to the sky just in case a few storms do fire.
April 20, 2005, 1:35 PM - Continued Risk of Storms!We've got almost everything in place for severe thunderstorms except afternoon heating. The clouds are really hanging on across Denver and the northeast plains. Some peaks of sun are trying to poke through, especially on the south side of town. We're sitting in the 40s at this hour for most locations in the metro. The warmer air is sitting just to our south with temperatures approaching 60 degrees from Monument Hill to Limon to Burlington. Southeast Colorado is in the mid 70s this afternoon!
Stay here with us and we'll keep you posted on the latest situation throughout the afternoon.
April 20, 2005, 9:35 AM - Keep an Eye to the Sky Today!The Storm Prediction Center has much of northeast Colorado placed under a slight risk for severe thunderstorms today, with the northeast corner under a moderate risk.
A bit more wind shear in the atmosphere combined with ample upper level energy is presenting the threat for thunderstorms. Low-level moisture combined with a fast-moving jet stream passing overhead will allow storms that form to rotate, and rotating thunderstorms often produce tornadoes. Large hail is also likely today.
The storms will initially focus along a boundary sitting over the Palmer Divide, just north of a surface low in southeast Colorado, and then press north and east.
Stay right here with 7NEWS and theDENVERchannel.com for all the latest information as the afternoon approaches!
April 20, 2005 - Storm Season is Here!I hope you enjoyed our "Storm Season" special Tuesday tonight on 7NEWS. It couldn't have had better timing as northeast Colorado experienced the first severe weather outbreak of the season. There were numerous reports of large hail from the northern Denver metro eastward to Sterling. Hail was also reported with thunderstorms along the Palmer Divide.
A few detailed hail reports include...
2.75" at Padroni in Logan County 1.75" in Arvada 1.75" south of Agate in Elbert County 1.25" 8 miles northeast of Briggsdale
Numerous hail reports were filed by the CoCo RaHS network of observers in Adams, Weld, Larimer, and Broomfield Counties.
A tornado touched down near the Sterling Reservoir, with 2.00" hail in the town of Sterling.
April 19, 2005 - "Storm Season"...A Prime Time Weather Special!Only on 7NEWS will you find a Prime Time Weather Special dedicated to teaching
you about Colorado's Weather! This special will air
TONIGHT at 7 PM and will include information on tornadoes, lightning, hail, and flooding.
We're very excited to bring this opportunity to you. It's just a part of the 24/7 Weather Center's ongoing dedication to not only provide you with the latest forecast information, but the facts and safety rules you need to know to stay ahead of the storm.
We'll continue working hard to develop more seminars, weather specials, and online tools just for you.
So call the family and friends, grab some microwave popcorn, and tune to 7NEWS for this awesome Prime Time weather special...
Tonight at 7 PM!April 18, 2005 - Cooler Unsettled Weather by MidWeek!Get out and enjoy the warm and delightful weather today and tomorrow! The weather will be perfect for some early season yard work or just a stroll in the park on your lunch hour. Cooler and unsettled weather will move in by midweek with highs some 20 degrees cooler and the threat for thunderstorms!
April 17, 2005 - It's the Season for Afternoon Thunderstorms!We've reached the time of year when afternoon thunderstorms can become almost a daily part of life here in eastern Colorado. As the temperatures warm and the wind direction becomes predominantly from the south, advecting moisture into the region, we run the risk for afternoon thunderstorms. Besides the warmer temperatures and moisture present, we must also look for an additional focusing factor to get storms. Sometimes it is the terrain, other times it can be a boundary from the previous day's storms. In yesterday's case, there was a little piece of a stalled front hanging over parts of eastern Colorado which helped focus these storms.
Up to 1/2" rain and some small hail fell out of a thunderstorm yesterday over southeast Aurora, just east and northeast of Parker. The clouds from a distance were beautiful as the towering cumulus built higher and higher in the sky.
So as the days get longer and the outdoor activites pick up in your life, just remember this is Colorado, and afternoon spring and summer thunderstorms are apart of our daily climate. Be sure to review all your storm safety rules before your next outing!
April 16, 2005 - Quiet Weather Around Much of the Nation!The weather maps are virtually blank this Saturday with areas of High Pressure anchored around the United States. A very weak front is stalled out from Duluth, Minnesota, stretching back toward the Palmer Divide of Colorado. This boundary could set off some afternoon thunderstorms in eastern Colorado if high temperatures reach what we call the LFC, or level of free convection. The LFC today would mean we need to climb into the lower 70s. Any storms that do form will have the capability of going severe due to the threat for large hail.
Speaking of severe thunderstorms, if a storm produces wind gusts in excess of 58 MPH, and/or hail with a diameter of 3/4" or greater, you have a severe thunderstorm.
A front is getting ready to move on deck in the Pacific Northwest today, bring some much needed precipitation to our friends in Washington and Oregon. That will be our next weather maker, slated to move through Colorado later Tuesday into Wednesday at this time.
Have a great weekend, thanks for reading the weather blog! Tune to 7NEWS all weekend and theDENVERchannel.com for your 24/7 Weather.
April 15, 2005 - The World's Worst Weather!This location presents some of the most severe combinations of cold, wind, icing and storminess where people are available to measure and record the daily weather. It lies in the path of principal storm tracks for this part of the world and due its elevation, is similar to the subarctic. Here are some facts from this location...
Elevation 6,288 feet Highest Wind Speed Recorded: 231 MPH Average Wind Speed for the Year: 35.3 MPH Temperature Extremes: -47 degrees (January 1934) and +72 degrees (June 2003) Average Annual Temperature: 26.5 degrees Winds Exceed Hurricane Force on Average: 104 days each year Fog is Reported (at least part of the day): Over 300 days each year
Where is this place with the "World's Worst Weather?"
Mt. Washington, New Hampshire Click here to visit Mt. Washington's website!April 14, 2005 - A Car Wash Weekend!A weak front is passing through Colorado this afternoon with very little weather associated with it other than a wind shift. On the eastern plains where a little more moisture is available, some weak showers could pop up late tonight into Friday.
We've got a banner weekend on tap for Colorado with ample sunshine and warm temperatures. A new storm will roll into the area early next week with cooler temperatures and some precipitation. Just a bit too early to call rain and snow lines but the 24/7 Weather Center will watch it closely for you and give you all the latest details.
The weekend snow brought the official total for Denver up to 36.4" for the season, still leaving us several inches behind an average year, which is 61.7" for the city. The snow year runs from July 1 - June 30 each year. It's not completely impossible, but getting less and less likely with each passing day that we'll see an average snow year in the Mile High City.
Some other area season-to-date snowfall totals as of today include...
48.7" North Longmont 57.0" Ralston Reservoir 57.2" Wheat Ridge 72.6" Evergreen
Elsewhere across the country this April has been cool for some, and quite warm for others. Two examples of this come from the state of Wisconsin, courtesy of "Badger Weather Watcher" Aric Andreoli. In Madison the average temperature so far this month has been 53.7 degrees with the landscape turning a nice shade of green. While there are several days left in April 2005, if this trend were to continue, it'd compete for 2nd warmest on record! Just down the interstate about 100 miles in Milwaukee, its been the 10th coolest April thus far since weather records began, with an average high of 47.9 degrees.
April 13, 2005 - Looking Back (Graphically) At Sunday's Storm!The great folks up at the National Weather Service Office in Boulder have been busy all week gathering snow data from Sunday's storm. The end result is a wonderful graphic that shows a nice footprint of area snow totals.
Click here to view this map courtesy of the National Weather Service!Something really interesting about the data is you almost immediately see distinct maximum areas of snowfall, with a 24" plus bullseye over central Arapahoe County near Bennett, two over Douglas County, one over southern Jefferson County, and one near Black Hawk in Gilpin County.
The heavy snowfall very clearly followed the higher terrain of our foothills west of town, and the Palmer Divide south and east of the Metro Area. Amazingly, some places in northern Weld County saw no snow at all from the storm.
The very potent but concentrated storm system brought some much needed and appreciated moisture to the region! Many thanks go out to all the volunteers who take snowfall data so that we can re-create storms and learn more about Colorado's weather. Data is provided by a host of area volunteer weather observers, including National Weather Service Cooperative Observers and CoCo RaHS volunteers!
Learn more about CoCo RaHS by clicking this link!April 12, 2005 - Wonderful Wednesday in Store!Beautiful weather is in store for the Centennial State on Wednesday and the snow around town continues to melt. We'll climb into the 60s with a few 70s on the plains likely. Areas with snowpack will have another day of temperatures cooler than the surrounding stations. This will definitely be a car wash day, so if you need to get that dirt from the past storm off the car, today looks to be perfect. The next chance of moisture comes late week as a front approaches the state.
April 11, 2005, 6:41 P.M. - Precious and Much Needed Moisture!A widespread 10-24" of snow has fallen across portions of the eastern plains and much of the Front Range with the weekend storm, a few 30" + totals came from the higher elevations, including 31" on Conifer Mountain and 36" southeast of Westcliffe.
That snow contained some valuable moisture that we will see over the next few days as the melting begins!
Denver International Airport recorded 1.09" of liquid precip (melted snow) on Sunday, which was a record for the date. We can break that down into gallons for a better idea of just how generous Mother Nature was to the area.
Here are a few basic facts that will help us make this calculation.
1" of rain water uniformly spread over 1 acre of land is 27,154 gallons of water There are 640 acres in 1 square mile
Let's take a look at DIA, sitting on approximately 34,000 acres northeast of the downtown. (53 square miles) That 1.09" of liquid precip translates to just over 1 billion gallons of water!
For a city the size of Denver, 153.4 square miles or nearly 100,000 acres, an inch of precip equals 2.67 billion gallons of water falling from the skies!
Finally, let's take a look at the Denver Metro Area, which is approximately 600 square miles or 400,000 acres. An inch of liquid precipitation translates to roughly 12 billion gallons of water!
As you can see, even when we get very small amounts of precipitation from a passing storm, such as only 10 or 12 hundredths, when you add up the area that small amount falls over, it can yield some impressive numbers in terms of gallons of water.
Not all that water makes it into the drinking supply due to things like evaporation, but that is just all part of the water cycle.
A few more area storm totals follow...note that liquid totals include any rain that fell as well as melted snow.
16.8 miles SSE Woodrow in Washington County (6" snow, .90" liquid) 10.0 miles SSE of Buckley AFB in Arapahoe County (26" snow, 2.22" liquid) 2.0 miles WNW of Stove Prarie in Larimer County (13.6" snow, 1.34" liquid) 0.3 miles NNE of Louviers in Douglas County (21.5" snow, 1.93" liquid) 8.1 miles NW of Evergreen in Clear Creek County (22.3" snow, 2.12" liquid) 10.5 miles SSE of Greeley in Weld County (6" snow, 1.58" liquid)
We can get you literally hundreds of more precipitation totals from not only around Colorado, but Wyoming, Kansas, New Mexico, the Texas Panhandle, and Nebraska! Click below to learn more.
Click here for more precipitation totals!April 11, 2005, 8:01 A.M. - Let the Diggin' Out Begin!The snow has came to an end in the Denver Metro and the trend will continue east of town. I-70 remains closed from east Aurora to the Kansas state line. The snow totals continue to come in with an impressive widespread area of 2 feet in eastern Adams and Arapahoe Counties, and surrounding areas. Due to the blizzard conditions they have endured out there, drifting of 5-6 feet has been reported.
The snow was wet with a lot of moisture content, and a widespread 1-2" of moisture has fallen across the Front Range and adjacent High Plains. A nice warm up this week will melt all the snow and turn the grass green. It may soon be time to start mowing the lawn again!
Check the blog later today for a full recap of this storm!
April 10, 2005, 10:39 P.M. - Clearing on the Way, Just Hang in There!It's been a really tough day for many citizens of eastern Colorado but we are starting to see the storm system inch its way into Kansas, with the center of low pressure just south of Dodge City as of 10 PM. That is some progress from earlier today when the storm was along the New Mexico/Colorado state line. Why is this storm taking so long to move out of the region you might ask? The answer lies in the upper air flow to the east of Colorado. There are two large high pressures blocking the upper air flow. One center of high pressure is located over eastern Canada, and a second over the Carolinas. Together these are slowing the air upstream, and making the storm just inch along.
While conditions have improved slightly, there are still some dangerous hours ahead, especially for our friends east of town where blizzard conditions have been in place almost all day. Roads are closed, cattle and other livestock are in danger, and many people are stranded, spending a long night in shelters that have been set up. I do have some good news, click below to take a look at our exclusive 24/7 Futurecast Model ran right here in the 24/7 Weather Center.
Click here to view the 24/7 Future Cast Map for 6:00 AM Monday morningThe situation still looks quite serious with strong winds and patches of moderate snow. But by 9 AM...
Click here to view the 24/7 Future Cast Map for 9:00 AM Monday morningwe see a dramatic improvement with the precipitation pulling off into Kansas. Winds will still be gusty at times evident by the long wind vectors (yellow arrows), but with precip tapering off it will be an improving situation.
Not all the news from this spring storm is bad...some very generous amounts of water has come to Colorado via the snow, with many communities picking up 1.00" + of liquid moisture. (melted snow) Be sure to check the blog tomorrow for some very interesting facts on how many gallons of water fell with this snow.
The melting will begin Tuesday and warm to near 60, and close to 70 degrees by week's end.
Stay tuned to 7NEWS and theDENVERchannel.com for all the latest. We'll have complete team weather coverage with myself, Jessica Jamison, and Scott Mace starting tomorrow morning at 5 AM. As the weather improves and we tally up the final storm totals, damage, and other interesting statistics...you can be sure you will find it all right here on theDENVERchannel.com! The 24/7 Weather Center here at 7NEWS appreciates you trusting us for all your weather information. Have an excellent week ahead!
April 10, 2005, 5:39 P.M. - A Classic Spring Storm!What a day! An area of low pressure that tracked along the New Mexico/Colorado border late last night intensified over southeast Colorado early this morning, drawing down some cold air from the north and copious amounts of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. Snows began to fly in the foothills late Saturday night, and rain changed to snow in the Denver area between 3 and 6 AM, depending on elevation. In the warmer and extremely unstable air out ahead of the storm, tornadoes and hail have been reported across Kansas, Nebraska, and Minnesota. We even had some thunderstorms roam the eastern plains from time to time, with thunder snow reported in Kit Carson County. Lightning was observed as well. Down in southeastern Colorado, a severe thunderstorm crossed Baca and Prowers County with hail reported, as large as 1.5" in diameter!
Snow totals have been in the 10-20" range for much of the Metro Area, with the highest totals on the south and west sides of the city. On the eastern plains, very strong winds have created blizzard conditions for many locations. Ranchers in Ramah (Elbert County) have had a tough afternoon keeping the cattle safe due to the blizzard.
So just what does a "blizzard" mean? Winds of 35 MPH or greater that last for a duration of 3 hours or more, with visibility of 1/4 mile or less and snow.
The moisture content from this storm will deposit an inch or more of liquid on many communities of eastern Colorado, which is excellent news for the water supply.
April 10, 2005, 2:09 P.M. - Heavy Snow and Severe Thunderstorms!It's springtime in the Rockies with heavy snow in Denver and severe thunderstorms over southeast Colorado. 1.5" hail was reported 10 miles northwest of Campo last hour during a severe storm.
Closer to home we have numerous closures both on the highways around the Front Range and out at the airport. I-70 is closed from Aurora to Kansas, I-25 closed from the Greenland Exit near Monument Hill to Colorado Springs. US 24 from Limon to Colorado Springs, Highway 93 from 64th Ave. to Highway 72, and US 85 from Ault to Wyoming.
Snow continues to pile up with many totals coming into the 24/7 Weather Center now over a foot. Including...
Littleton - 14" Aurora - 13" Castle Rock - 12" Longmont - 12" Ken Caryl - 10"
April 10, 2005, 11:09 A.M. -Snow Being Measured in FeetHeavy snow continues to fall across Denver with totals coming into the 24/7 Weather Center now surpassing 12" in many locations. It is a very heavy and wet snowfall so as you are out clearing the sidewalk and driveway, be very careful. The weight of the snow is hard on trees and bushes, especially smaller ones, so it might be a good idea to knock the snow off periodically.
Though this is a dangerous storm in terms of travel, it is really beneficial in terms of moisture and our water supply. If you are out and about, please be very careful on roads and watch intersections as your approach them. Many street signs and traffic lights are completely snow covered, to the point where you can't even tell what you need to do. Many intersections with traffic lights are operating like four-way stops.
Keep it here for the latest!
April 10, 2005, 8:09 A.M. - Dangerous Storm Hitting Colorado!Snow and wind are slamming the Front Range and surrounding areas this morning with some impressive preliminary totals coming into the 24/7 Weather Center. Totals are as of 7 AM!
6" Empire 5.5" Evergreen, Ken Caryl 5" Larkspur, Livermore 4" Castle Rock, Bergen Park 3.5" Aurora 3" Colorado City
Area roads are snowpacked and there have been numerous accidents. Many areas are on accident alert. Visibility has been reported at 1/4 mile or lower as the winds whip the snow around. Gusts over 30 MPH have been common. Several flights are either delayed or cancelled at DIA with moderate snow falling and a sustained N wind at 37 MPH, gusting to 41.
Stay with theDENVERchannel.com and your 24/7 Weather Center for additional weather information. Click here to view the 24/7 Future Cast Map Click here to view the Current Weather Watches and Warnings for Colorado.Several additional tools are available for you, including the Front Range, State, and Regional Radar view. Click here to view the Front Range Radar View. Click here to view the Statewide Doppler Radar. Click here to view the Regional Satellite/Radar Composite.April 10, 2005, 6:09 A.M. - Powerful Storm Brings Wind, Snow, and Cold!A powerful early spring storm is in progress over eastern Colorado with widespread precipitation breaking out up and down the I-25 Urban Corridor, south into Colorado Springs and Trinidad. Today is a day you will want to just stay home if you can, as travel will be slow and very slick. Roads are already becoming snowpacked in portions of the Denver Metro Area at this early hour.
One thing we can be certain about with this storm is it will bring some much needed, and copious amounts of liquid precipitation to the eastern plains, adjacent foothills, and mountains east of the divide. Even the mountains west of the divide are picking up snowfall. The big question still somewhat unknown at this time will be exact snow amounts. Final totals will have a wide range, with a general 1-2 feet in the foothills and mountains. Some favored eastern slopes can see higher. In the I-25 Urban Corridor, storm totals are going to range from 8-16" for the most part, with 3-10" totals farther out on the plains.
A slew of watches, warnings, and advisories are in effect for the state right now, almost too numerous to list. We have a wonderful new graphic product here on theDENVERchannel.com to help you stay ahead of the storm.
Click here to view the Current Weather Watches and Warnings for Colorado.Stay with theDENVERchannel.com and tune to 7NEWS throughout the day for all the latest weather and travel information. As the storm progresses the 24/7 Weather Center will research as much information possible for a complete recap on road conditions, snow totals, and the current storm track.
As the snows accumulate, take caution when out shoveling the sidewalks and driveway. This snow has high moisture content and will be heavy to move. Back injuries and sometimes even heart attacks result from shoveling. Check up on your elderly friends and loved ones throughout the day and remember your outdoor pets. It is going to be quite windy today, and with the weight of the snow, tree branches and powerlines could fall, so just be prepared.
As always, your team of 24/7 Weather Center meteorologists are here working for you, so stay with us for the latest.
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