Colorado is experiencing its lowest snowpack on record, with 59% snowpack below median statewide as of January 19. The South Platte Basin, which includes Longmont, Boulder County, and Weld County, has 60% of the median snowpack. The low snowpack is not only a concern for skiers who want to experience powder days, but also for ongoing Colorado drought conditions.
The U.S. drought monitor page shows Weld and Boulder counties are currently experiencing moderate drought. There are seven counties experiencing extreme or exceptional drought in the state. Drought conditions can cause water shortages for farmers and increase wildfire risks. The state experienced its most destructive wildfire season in 2025 since 2020, with over 200,000 acres burned. The Marshall Fire in Boulder occurred in 2021 and is considered the most costly wildfire in the state’s history, demolishing more than 1,000 homes.
Meanwhile, the low snowpack at ski resorts has caused tourists to rethink their vacation plans, causing harm to local communities that rely on a boost in tourist-related income during the ski season. Most of Eldora Mountain’s trails are still closed, with only 26 out of 61 currently open as the end of January approaches. Two weeks ago, the town of Nederland approved the $120 million purchase of the resort…