weather

This week’s Water Wednesday Outdoor Report looks at early-season snowpack levels across the San Miguel, Dolores, Animas, and San Juan basins, recent precipitation totals around the region, and how upcoming moisture may influence drought conditions.

Mountain snow and colder temps continue today across the Four Corners, with more chances for rain and snow returning midweek.

La Niña is expected to persist through early winter before fading by spring, bringing a mix of mild and uncertain seasonal weather patterns.

Warm, dry weather continues through Thursday before a Pacific storm brings rain, mountain snow, and cooler temps heading into the weekend.

High pressure will keep the Four Corners warm and dry through midweek, with plenty of sunshine and highs running five to ten degrees above normal. Thin clouds may drift through, but conditions remain pleasant until late Thursday, when a Pacific storm system brings a chance of valley rain and light mountain snow — especially in the San Juans. Temperatures are expected to drop five to fifteen degrees below normal heading into the weekend.

Sunny and mild conditions continue across the Four Corners through Wednesday, with highs well above normal — around 62 in Dove Creek, 70 in Rattlesnake, and 67 in Cortez. A weak system moving over the Rockies will bring a slight cooldown and a few light mountain snow showers late in the week, while most of the region stays dry and breezy.

As freezing temperatures return to the forecast, protecting your home’s plumbing is about more than just good practice — it’s science. When water freezes, it expands and can burst pipes, but wrapping them with foam insulation or heat tape traps existing heat and slows the cooling process. Even a few degrees’ difference can prevent costly damage and keep water flowing when temperatures drop.

Sunny skies and gusty winds are expected across the Four Corners today, while northern Colorado sees light mountain snow and colder air moving in behind a passing front.

Trail reporter Phil says it’s shaping up to be another great Four Corners weekend for mountain bikers and hikers, with cool temperatures, clear skies, and plenty of color still hanging on in the cottonwoods — plus a new local event for riders in Dolores.

October has been a good month for precipitation in the Four Corners.