After a long winter, Coloradans finally got a taste of spring over the weekend, with a few rumbles of thunder stirring excitement among weather enthusiasts. While these storms were relatively weak, they signaled the transition into a more active weather season. But when will Colorado start to see true severe thunderstorms?
A Climatological Perspective on Severe Weather
Based on 30 years of probabilistic climate data from the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) and the National Severe Storm Laboratory (NSSL), Colorado’s severe thunderstorm season is just around the corner.
The eastern plains, which are more susceptible to severe weather, could see strong storms as early as mid to late April. Historically, the likelihood of severe weather begins to rise in April, though it remains relatively low. By May, the probability of severe storms increases by 2 percentage points. However, the most active period arrives in June, when the probability jumps significantly, peaking at around 5%.
Why June is Peak Severe Weather Season
June is historically the most active month for severe thunderstorms in Colorado due to a combination of factors. The most prominent being:
- Moisture
- Instability
- Lift
During this time, the eastern half of Colorado, including areas like the Palmer Divide, the Front Range foothills, and the High Plains, experiences the most frequent and intense severe storms. These storms can bring large hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Storm Season
As we move into spring, the potential for severe weather will continue to increase. April will likely bring more isolated thunderstorm activity, but by late May and June, severe storms will become more frequent.
For now, keep an eye on the skies—Colorado’s thunderstorm season is about to ramp up.