A devastating storm hit Colorado and New Mexico from October 17 to 20, bringing record-breaking rainfall and snowfall. Roswell, New Mexico, experienced half of its annual precipitation in just 6 hours, setting a new daily record of 5.78 inches, equivalent to a 500-year storm event. The Pecos River levels rose, causing minor flooding in the region and stressing the destructive power of the storm. In Roswell alone, over 300 rescues and 40 hospitalizations were reported, with two fatalities. Additionally, Colorado saw up to 2 feet of snow in the Uinta and San Juan Mountains, representing 15% of the annual peak snowpack in one event. The storm was caused by a mid-level shortwave trough evolving into a cutoff low-pressure system over Arizona, leading to strong synoptic-scale forcing and severe thunderstorms. The unusual intensity of precipitation and snowfall was likely due to rare meteorological conditions. The cutoff low pulled in moisture and instability, creating ideal conditions for the storm’s severity. The storm’s impact was felt throughout the region, with devastating consequences. Emergency services were overwhelmed with rescues and hospitalizations, highlighting the danger posed by extreme weather events. The community must remain vigilant and prepared for future severe weather events in the wake of this catastrophic storm.
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Photo credit watchers.news
Severe Snowfall in Colorado and Record Rains in New Mexico during Historic Storm from October 17 to 20
