A Wild Weekend Ahead – Snow, Freezing Rain, and Blowing Snow on the Way
A winter storm is set to hit Dryden and Vermilion Bay on Saturday, bringing 10-15 cm of snow, freezing rain, and strong winds. Travel will be hazardous—stay prepared!
Residents of Dryden and Vermilion Bay should brace for a powerful winter storm arriving on Saturday, bringing a messy mix of heavy snow, freezing rain, ice pellets, and strong winds. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect, warning of potentially hazardous travel conditions as a Colorado low moves into the region.
Current Conditions: A Soggy Start Before the Big Freeze
As of 5:03 AM CDT, light rain is falling in Dryden, with the temperature at 2.5°C. Humidity is at 73%, and the wind is coming from the ESE at 21 km/h, gusting to 30 km/h. The barometric pressure is 100.0 kPa and falling, signaling the approaching storm system. Visibility is still 16 km, but conditions are expected to deteriorate as the storm moves in.
Today: Rain and a Glimpse of Sunshine
Rain will taper off early this morning, followed by a mix of sun and cloud with a 30% chance of showers. There is also a risk of freezing rain early this morning, so roads could be slick in some areas. The southeast wind will strengthen to 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h. The afternoon will be relatively mild, with a high of 11°C and a moderate UV index of 3.
Tonight, expect mainly cloudy skies with a 60% chance of showers and a risk of thunderstorms. The temperature will stay mild, with a low of 4°C.
Saturday: The Storm Arrives – Snow, Ice, and Strong Winds
Saturday will start with rain, but don’t be fooled—it will quickly change to a wintry mix of ice pellets, freezing rain, and heavy snow by late morning. Snowfall amounts could reach 10 to 15 cm, and strong northwest winds at 30 km/h, gusting to 60 km/h, will create blowing snow and reduced visibility.
The temperature will plummet to -5°C by the afternoon, with a wind chill making it feel like -14°C.
Saturday night will be harsh, with blowing snow, continued snowfall, and a low of -16°C.
Sunday and Beyond: A Cold and Blustery Pattern
Sunday will remain cloudy with a 30% chance of flurries and a high of -5°C. The night will be clear but bitterly cold, dropping to -18°C.
Monday offers a slight warm-up, with a mix of sun and cloud and a 30% chance of flurries, reaching a high of 0°C. Overnight, expect cloudy periods with a low of -12°C.
Hazards: Travel Will Be Treacherous
With a mix of heavy snow, ice, and strong winds, road conditions will deteriorate quickly on Saturday. The risk of freezing rain means surfaces could become coated in ice before the snow takes over. Poor visibility due to blowing snow and rapidly accumulating snowfall could make travel extremely hazardous.
If you must travel, check road conditions, allow extra time, and pack an emergency kit.
Wardrobe Advice: A Rapid Shift from Rain Gear to Full Winter Gear
Today and tonight, a rain jacket and waterproof footwear will be handy. But by Saturday, it’s time to break out full winter gear, including an insulated coat, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots. Wind chills will make the air feel significantly colder, so dressing in layers will be key to staying warm.
Fun Weather Fact: The Unpredictable Nature of Colorado Lows
Did you know? Colorado Lows are some of North America’s most dynamic storm systems. They can bring spring-like warmth, thunderstorms, and heavy snow—all in one storm! Their exact path can be tricky to predict, which is why snowfall amounts can vary widely across affected regions.
Stay alert, stay safe, and prepare for a wintery mess this weekend in Dryden and Vermilion Bay!
