October 2021: We finally broke out of our warm fall pattern as temperatures fell to more normal values. This was due to strong upper level troughs that brought in cooler temperatures but very
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October 2021: We finally broke out of our warm fall pattern as temperatures fell to more normal values. This was due to strong upper level troughs that brought in cooler temperatures but very little moisture. These systems, fast moving out of the west, resulted in many days of downslope winds and tiny amounts of snow coming from over-the-Divide flurries and snow showers. Precipitation was only about 33% of normal. Better snow amounts occurred west of the Divide and in Wyoming where most of the upslope occurred. Still some ski areas were able to make snow to open a few runs.
Temperature: The first week was quite warm with a cooling period mid month. The last two weeks had its ups and downs but was pretty close to long-term means. Average high was 53F, with an average low of 34F. These averaged out to give us a month only one degree above normal. Highest high was 68F on the 5th; lowest high was 35F on the 15th. Coldest day was 22F on the 15th.
Precipitation: Rain totaled a paltry 0.43 inches, 0.83 inches below normal. Snow totaled 3 inches, 7 inches below normal. The “big” event was a 4-day siege (12th - 16th) that brought 2.5 inches of snow that melted out to 0.24 inches of liquid. Other events were flurries and light snow showers.
Winds: Four windy (40+ mph) days with one of those days (the 13th) over 60 mph. There were plenty of downed trees and deck furniture blown about for those procrastinators who did not store them away.
Other Features: Fall colors were spectacular in early October until the mid month wind event. The kids got a taste of cold Halloweens of the past as temperatures went below freezing in the evening.
Outlook for November: Conditions turn much more winter-like in our 11th month. Average high is 42F, average low is 21F. We get 1.13 inches of liquid from 18 inches of snow. There are typically 12 windy days. Long range models are indicating warm, dry, and windy conditions until the 9-10th when a strong system moves in. We should see some moderate snow. After that things turn colder with recovery by the 17th. The remainder of the month should be near normal .
