It’s funny how so many of us eagerly wait for summer, only to complain about the heat and then start wishing for cooler days. I’ll admit, I’m guilty of this, too. During the hottest days, I crave winter’s chill, but when the cold sets in, I can’t wait for summer to return. The best seasons in Northern Colorado, in my opinion, are those mild in-between days when windows are open, the sun is shining, and you might even get a slight sunburn after sitting outside for a few hours.
Fall in Colorado: Short but Sweet
Fall is right around the corner, but sadly, it never seems to last long enough. Just as the season hits its peak, winter rushes in like a runaway dump truck full of snow. And according to the Farmers’ Almanac, this year’s winter will arrive sooner and be harsher than expected.
The Almanac summed up its outlook for the 2025-26 winter season in just three words: “Chill, snow, repeat.”
A Harsh Winter for the Northern Plains and Rockies
According to the Farmers’ Almanac forecast, Colorado will face a very cold and snowy winter, along with Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Minnesota.
Time to Prepare for the Cold
If you dread shoveling snow, now might be the perfect time to invest in that snowblower you’ve been considering. Based on the forecast, you’ll likely need it.
Winter Vehicle Care Checklist for Colorado
To stay safe and ready for Colorado’s tough winter conditions, here’s what you should check on your vehicle:
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Check Your Battery: Freezing temperatures can reduce your car battery’s capacity by up to 20%. Test it before winter hits.
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Inspect Tire Tread: Bald tires are dangerous on snowy and icy roads. Use the quarter test—insert a quarter into the tread with George Washington’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.
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Keep Your Gas Tank at Least Half Full: This prevents frozen fuel lines during extreme cold.
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Check Your Antifreeze: Ensure a proper 50/50 water-to-antifreeze mix, widely available at gas stations and auto stores.
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Inspect Windshield Wipers: Replace them if they leave streaks while cleaning or during rainfall.
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Stay on Top of Oil Changes: Cold weather thickens oil, so maintaining proper levels reduces engine stress.
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Pack an Emergency Kit: Include blankets, snacks, flashlights, jumper cables, and other essentials in case you get stranded.
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Carry Sand or Kitty Litter: Helps with traction if your tires get stuck in snow or ice.
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Check Your Brakes: Inspect pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels to ensure safety on slick roads.
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Have Winter Essentials: Keep an ice scraper, snow brush, and windshield washer fluid ready at all times.
How Colorado Residents Prepare for Winter Storms
Living in Colorado means being ready for sudden, intense winter storms. Residents typically stock up on food, water, warm clothing, and vehicle essentials to stay safe if travel becomes impossible. Ice and snow can leave you stuck at home until roads are cleared—or until you dig your way out.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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