The climate in Colorado varies greatly from place to place due to differences in elevation and the orientation of mountain ranges with respect to each other. In general, temperatures decrease by 4-5 degrees Fahrenheit per 1,000 feet above sea level.
Temperatures can vary crazily in as little as 12 hours, so it is important to dress in layers when you visit. This will keep you comfortable and allow you to adjust your attire as necessary.
Typically, winters are mild, especially in mountain towns. However, there are some snowy days throughout the year.
Spring in Colorado can be rainy or sunny depending on the time of year, so you should plan ahead.
In summer, thunderstorms can be severe and produce life-threatening lightning, hail, and flash flooding. They also often cause mudslides, tornadoes, and dust storms.
Hail in Colorado is one of the most destructive forms of weather that occurs. It can cause tens of millions of dollars in damage each year.
Aside from hail, it is also possible for Colorado to experience tornadoes. These are extremely rare, but they do occur from time to time.
The Rocky Mountains in Colorado are prone to tornadoes and funnel clouds, which can be quite devastating. They usually only occur in extreme situations and rarely affect the average citizen.
Colorado is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding and most ski areas have a variety of programs for children. Nevertheless, traveling to Colorado during the winter can be challenging because of the unpredictable weather.