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Denver to tie most 90-degree days in a year, then have one of the earliest snowfalls on record

Denver’s Labor Day weekend will tie the all-time record for most 90-degree days in a year at 73. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday will each top 90 degrees.

Pinpoint Weather Alert Days have been issued for Tuesday and Wednesday, when Denver’s temperatures will plummet 50 or more degrees and turn approaching rain into snow.

So, how does this September snow fit into the history books for Denver?

  • The earliest date of the first snow: September 3, 1961
  • The latest date of the first snow: November 21, 1934
  • The average date of the first snow: October 18

The first measurable snowfall over the last 19 years has come in either October or November.

Denver hasn’t seen more than a trace of snow in September since 2000, when 0.2″ of snow fell on the city.

Here’s a look at the list of the first snowfalls during the last 10 years from the National Weather Service:

  • October 10, 2019
  • October 6, 2018
  • October 9, 2017
  • November 17, 2016
  • November 5, 2015
  • November 11, 2014
  • October 18, 2013
  • October 5, 2012
  • October 25, 2011
  • November 15, 2010

How much snow can Denver expect this year? It’s too early to guess. The average total snowfall is 56.4 inches.

The lowest snowfall season total over the last 10 years: 21.8 inches in 2016-2017

The greatest snowfall season total over the last 10 years: 78.4 inches in 2012-2013

Here’s a look at the snowfall season totals for the last 10 years, according to the National Weather Service:

  • 2019-2020: 57.6 inches
  • 2018-2019 48.1 inches
  • 2017-2018 25.7 inches
  • 2016-2017 21.8 inches
  • 2015-2016 72.8 inches
  • 2014-2015 57.8 inches
  • 2013-2014 38.4 inches
  • 2012-2013 78.4 inches
  • 2011-2012 55.6 inches
  • 2010-2011 22.8 inches

While it isn’t abnormal to see snow in October in Denver, it’s been awhile since the city saw a big snowstorm in October. The three biggest snowstorms ever recorded in Denver history in October are:

  • October 3-5, 1969: 16 inches
  • October 24-25, 1997: 21.9 inches
  • October 20-23, 1906: 22.7 inches

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