March weather report details Colorado's driest month since 2018 and extreme winds

In a recent meeting of the Water Conditions Monitoring Committee, members gathered to discuss the pressing water conditions across Colorado, particularly in light of the unusual weather patterns experienced in March 2025. The atmosphere was charged with concern as experts shared insights on precipitation levels and their implications for the state’s water supply.

March proved to be a month of contrasts. While some areas of the Northern Front Range received a late-season rainstorm that nudged precipitation levels to above average, many regions, especially in Southern and Western Colorado, faced significantly drier conditions. The Arkansas River Valley, encompassing Fremont and Pueblo Counties, reported alarming deficits in rainfall, raising concerns about water availability as the state transitions into its dry season.

The meeting highlighted that March 2025 marked the driest March statewide since 2018, a trend that could have lasting impacts on water resources. With the Southwest region already grappling with below-normal precipitation from December through February, the committee noted that the chances of recovery through the upcoming months appear slim. “You can’t count on a miracle May like we got in 2015 every year,” one member cautioned, emphasizing the unpredictability of weather patterns.

Wind conditions also took center stage during the discussions. March was characterized by strong gusts, particularly in Southeastern Colorado, where wind speeds reached upwards of 65 miles per hour. These gusts, when adjusted for measurement standards, could have been as high as 85 miles per hour, contributing to dust storms that affected air quality and visibility across the region.

As the committee reviewed data from the Colorado Agricultural Meteorological Network, it became clear that the state is facing a complex interplay of weather phenomena. The departure of La Niña, which typically influences wind patterns, adds another layer of uncertainty to the forecast. With the spring season often bringing windy conditions, the committee members expressed the need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness as they navigate these challenging water conditions.

The discussions underscored the importance of proactive measures in managing Colorado’s water resources, especially as the state braces for the potential impacts of a drier-than-normal year ahead. As the meeting concluded, members left with a shared sense of urgency, recognizing that the decisions made today will shape the state’s water future for years to come.