Colorado winters can be unpredictable, ranging from heavy snow and chilly temperatures to warm sunny days. Check out these tips to stay safe and prepared.
1. Dress for changing weather in layers
Temperatures and weather conditions can change rapidly, especially as we start to experience spring snow. On especially cold days, wearing multiple layers, as opposed to a single heavy coat, can help you stay warm. This is because layers can help prevent excess moisture and persperation on your skin, which helps you stay drier and therefore, warmer. If you plan on being physically active or exerting yourself, you can also easily shed layers to prevent yourself from overheating.
It’s also important to cover areas that are more likely to develop frostbite, including your hands, feet, ears and nose. Try to keep gloves, hats and scarves by your front door or in your coat pockets, so you won’t forget to bring them with you on cold days. We also recommend footwear that is warm, waterproof and tall enough to keep snow from getting inside your shoes.
If you’re planning to drink this winter, appropriate clothing and precautions are especially important. This is because you might feel warmer when under the influence, and you may not realize how cold you actually are. One reason for this is that alcohol consumption causes the blood vessels in the skin to dilate, moving warm blood from your body’s core to the surface, making our skin feel warm. This effect can give you a false sense of warmth and increase your risk of hypothermia if you spend too much time outside in cold weather. If you plan to walk home from parties or other gatherings, make sure you’re dressed against the cold.
2. Wear sun protection
Colorado’s high elevation makes it the perfect place to catch a sunburn, even in the winter. This is because there is less atmosphere to protect against UV radiation and the sun’s rays can easily reflect off of snowy and icy surfaces. Follow these tips to best protect yourself from sun damage:
3. Know before you go
Check the forecast before heading outside, and remember that Colorado weather can change in an instant. Take extra precautions if the National Weather Service issues any of the following winter weather alerts:
It’s also important to check terrain conditions if you are planning to hike, ski or recreate in the backcountry. This includes Rocky Mountain National Park and other areas around Colorado. In the winter, avalanches can cause masses of snow, rock and ice to slide down the mountainside, potentially reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour (aka much faster than you can ski or hike out of the way). It’s also important to follow signs and trail closures since there may be an increased avalanche risk in the area. Backcountry skiers and snowboarders are highly encouraged to take avalanche safety courses, ski with experienced partners and bring appropriate equipment, including a transciever, probe and shovel.
View a map of current avalanche conditions in Colorado
4. Plan your transportation
Winter weather can impact transportation options. Here are some tips to help you prepare for less-than-ideal road conditions, storms and more.
If you’re driving
Winter can impact traffic patterns, road conditions and the way your car operates. Follow these tips to get your car winter weather ready.
If you’re riding the bus
Snowstorms and weather advisories may impact public transportation. This can include closures and delayed schedules. Follow these tips to navigate public transit during winter months.
If you’re on foot
Whether you’re biking, skating or walking to or from campus, practice these safety tips.
No matter how you plan to get around, be sure to have a backup plan in place. For instance, you may want to call a friend or family member to give you a lift if you’re concerned about getting to and from campus safely.
5. Stay hydrated
High elevation, cold weather and dry conditions can leave you feeling more dehydrated than usual, especially if you’re engaged in strenuous activities like skiing, hiking, shoveling or snowshoeing. Be sure to drink at least one liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours while doing physical activity outside. It’s also important to bring extra water if you plan to be outdoors with pets or other people. Avoiding caffeine (a diuretic) can also help you stay hydrated for longer.
Resources
Check out these resources to help you prepare and stay safe outside.
Resources for students
Outdoor Equipment Rentals
Outdoor Pursuits offers outdoor gear rentals to students, staff and faculty. Rental equipment includes hiking, camping, climbing, tubing, water sports and winter equipment options.
Apothecary Pharmacy
The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center carries a variety of over-the-counter products, including sunscreen, allergy medication, lip balm, aloe vera, hand warmers and more.
Free wellness supplies
You can pick up free sunscreen, first aid and other wellness supplies at the Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center or at the Village Center.
NightRide
Your safe and free alternative to walking alone after dark. NightRide is a student-operated service that allows you to request free, evening transportation to and from any location within Boulder city limits.
Ski Bus
The E-Center’s Ski Bus Program provides ticketed rides to and from ski resorts for CU Boulder students, including Arapahoe Basin, Winter Park, Copper and Eldora. Every bus stops at Williams Village, Kittredge and Farrand Field on campus. Tickets are available for $20 ($10 for HERD members).
Campus Alerts
CU Boulder has an alert system that can send notifications to your phone and campus email related to winter weather conditions, delays and campus closures.
Resources for staff and faculty
Outdoor Equipment Rentals
Outdoor Pursuits offers outdoor gear rentals to students, staff and faculty. Rental equipment includes hiking, camping, climbing, tubing, water sports and winter equipment options.
Apothecary Pharmacy
The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center carries a variety of over-the-counter products, including sunscreen, allergy medication, lip balm, aloe vera, hand warmers and more.
NightRide
Your safe and free alternative to walking alone after dark. NightRide is a student-operated service that allows you to request free, evening transportation to and from any location within Boulder city limits.
Free wellness supplies
You can pick up free sunscreen, first aid and other wellness supplies at the Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.
Campus alerts
CU Boulder has an alert system that can send notifications to your phone and campus email related to winter weather conditions, delays and campus closures.
Snowstang RTD Program
The Colorado Department of Transportation provides shuttle services to and from Loveland, Arapahoe Basin, Copper, Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs throughout the ski season. Tickets are available for $25 to $40 roundtrip.