Colorado features a higher elevation than many other states, a continental interior geography and a relatively central latitude. This combination produces a cool, dry climate for much of the year. However, variations occur within Colorado’s three regions:
Eastern: This plains region is characterized by abundant sunshine, low humidity, infrequent precipitation and moderate-to-high winds. The temperature range is extreme, often exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and dropping below zero in winter.
Mountains: The Rocky Mountains significantly impact much of Colorado’s climate. The air temperature typically decreases with elevation while the precipitation levels increase. The prevailing midwinter mountaintop winds and heavy snowfalls are common from November until mid-May.
Western: This portion of the state has less extreme topography consisting of numerous canyons, plateaus and lower elevations. The winter weather is usually colder but experiences less precipitation than the eastern side of the Rockies.