By Joe Ruch | CBS Colorado
Colorado’s topography is unique. The lowest point is on the Eastern Plains with an elevation of 3,317 feet where the Arikaree River flows out of Yuma County. The highest point is atop Mount Elbert with an elevation of 14,438 feet (about half the cruising altitude of a commercial jet).
This significant difference in elevation can help play a pivotal role in deciding which place will be the big winner during a snowstorm. Three major features that drive northern Colorado’s weather include the Front Range Mountains, the Palmer Divide, and the Cheyenne Ridge.
Keep in mind, as air rises all the moisture is squeezed out like a sponge, leaving the air warmer and dry. With that said, you want to be on the rising side (upslope) of the wind direction for big snow.