Climate models a mixed bag for Colorado

December 27, 3:47 PMDenver Weather ExaminerTony Hake

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The short term climate forecast for the 6 - 10 day range
forecasts above normal temperatures for eastern
Colorado.  Click here for our slideshow with more
details.

The mid to long range climate outlooks for Colorado show above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation are expected for the next 30 days. 

In the shorter 6 – 10 day period, the Climate Prediction Center is forecasting above normal temperatures for the northeast portion of the state, including the Front Range.  They are also expecting below normal precipitation. 

In the mid range 8 – 14 day period, above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation are expected across the state. 

For the one month outlook for January 2009, above normal temperatures are expected on the plains, including Denver, while the high country should be about average.  Across the state the month is expected to be near normal for precipitation. 

• View our slideshow below for a graphical look at the climate models.

After spending many days in an arctic ice box in recent weeks, we certainly would welcome the warmer temperatures.  For precipitation however, the Front Range could really use a boost and the models aren't showing it.  As it stands today, the official Denver snowfall measurement at Stapleton is at 10.3 inches. This is considerably below normal as by this point in the snow season Denver normally has 25.6 inches.

The good news is that while the Front Range has been dry,most of the Colorado basins are seeing well above average levels of snowpack. The South Platte and Upper Colorado basins, the two most critical for the Front Range are at 103% and 119% of normal respectively. Overall snowpack levels for the state are at 116% which is quite good.