Dust Storm and Heavy Snow in Colorado, December 12 to 15, 2021

Name: Dust Storm and Heavy Snow in Colorado, December 12 to 15, 2021
Start: 2021-12-12T09:05
End: 2021-12-15T17:00
Location: Colorado

December 12 to 15, 2021 · NWS PUB · 146 events in 21 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it; 145 filed by county or forecast zone are drawn at its center, in a lighter ring. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 1
Injuries: 0
Property damage: None recorded
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 146

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS PUB wrote it up.

A potent upper level system and surface low approached the region late in the day on the 14th, and then lifted across Colorado during the day on the 15th. As the system moved overhead a strong upper level jet of 120 KT moved from southwest to northeast across the region, from the San Luis Valley eastward into the eastern Colorado plains. This setup favored heavy mountain snow across the Continental Divide, primarily the eastern San Juan mountain. Meanwhile, lighter amounts of snow were observed across the central and eastern mountains. As this system pivoted across the region, the strength of this system and some weak instability supported the development of snow squalls from the Continental Divide east into parts of the I-25 corridor. The strong jet moving across the region as well as mountain wave action produced widespread extreme winds over much of southern Colorado. The very dry/drought conditions in place and the extreme winds then produced widespread blowing dust over much of the plains.

High/Extreme fire danger was also noted given the strength of the wind field and falling RH values, falling well into the teens, when combined with gusts over 70 MPH. Numerous grass and prairie fires occurred caused by falling power lines.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Pueblo, CO wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Dec 12, 3:40 AM MST, 5 hours 25 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Dec 12, 3:40 AM MST, 5 hours 25 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Pueblo CO
340 AM MST Sun Dec 12 2021

.SHORT TERM...(Today and tonight)
Issued at 339 AM MST Sun Dec 12 2021

Brisk wly flow aloft across CO today, with lee surface trough slowly
pushing onto the plains east of I-25 in the afternoon. Already
seeing some gusty, gap-flow winds in usual locations this
morning including La Veta Pass/Walsenburg, while high mountain AWOS
stations are gusting 30-40 kts as of 10z. Very dry air mass already
in place across the area, with mountain and interior valley
dewpoints in the single digits above/below zero, leading to near
critical fire weather conditions at a few well mixed sites already
this morning. For today, as lee trough moves east, gap flow winds
will spread eastward on the plains, leading to Red Flag conditions
through Fremont County into portions of the I-25 corridor and over
the plains along and north of the NM border. If HRRR wind field is
correct, KPUB and KCOS may miss the strongest winds, with gustier
conditions just north and south of both locations. Current RFW looks
fine for now and won't make any changes to the highlight. Max temps
today will climb back to well above seasonal averages at most
locations, and few spots on the eastern plains could approach 70f by
mid-afternoon. Tonight, winds lessen this evening at many locations,
though eastern mountain slopes and gap flow areas may stay
occasionally gusty through the night. Overnight lows will run at or
above freezing over mixed areas along and west of I-25, with
seasonably cold readings elsewhere.

.LONG TERM...(Monday through Saturday)
Issued at 339 AM MST Sun Dec 12 2021

...Strong system possible Tuesday evening into Wednesday bringing
heavy snow to eastern San Juans and the potential for damaging
winds for much of the region...

.Monday into Tuesday...Next storm system moves into California by
later Tuesday. Ahead of thew system, mostly dry and mild weather
will cover the forecast area. On Monday, the main concern will be
the potential for some critical fire weather conditions. Low
humidities will cover the Interstate 25 corridor and eastern
plains Monday afternoon with minimum humidities below 15 percent.
Limiting factor for widespread critical fire are the relatively
light winds aloft; however, the pressure gradient across the
mountains will be strong enough to get some gusty winds in the
gaps of the mountains, as seen in the HRRR. SPC day 2 fire outlook
has an elevated risk, mentioning the spotty nature of the gusty
winds and the very dry fuels. Given the spotty nature of the gusty
winds, will not issue any fire weather highlights at this time.
Will mention potential for spotty red flag criteria in the fire
weather discussion. On Tuesday, the leading edge of the trough
will reach the Continental Divide region with PoPs increasing
mainly over the eastern San Juan Mountains.

.Tuesday night into Wednesday...Models and ensembles are
consistent with a strong trough moving across the region from
southwest to northeast. First main effect from the trough will be
heavy snow. The southwest flow is favorable for the eastern San
Juan Mountains where the grids have in excess of a foot of snow.
Other mountain areas have less snow as flow never becomes west to
northwest for a prolonged period of time. Suspect future shifts
will start issuing watches for at least the eastern San Juan
Mountains. The second main effect from this strong trough will be
the winds. As the sharp trough passes, the GFS and EC have 700 mb
winds in excess of 60 knots from the west to southwest. With rapid
cyclogenesis on the plains, the wind threat will extend onto the
eastern plains. The NBM, which has a low wind speed bias, is
already showing wind gusts near high wind criteria over much area
from the eastern mountains and eastward. Much too early for any
high wind watches, as will have to wait and see on the specifics
of the path and strength of the trough. Suspect some wind watches
will be issued in the future. There are are fire weather concerns
with the winds as humidities may approach or go below critical
values.

.Thursday through Saturday...GEFS and EPS suggest the potential
for a trough or cutoff low to move into the desert southwest with
a progressive trough in the northern branch. Looks as if the area
will generally be between the two systems. There could be some
light snow over the Continental Divide region with temperatures
near or below normal. Ensemble means indicate coolest day would
be Saturday as suggested by the NBM. --PGW--

&&

.AVIATION...(For the 12Z TAFS through 12Z Monday morning)
Issued at 339 AM MST Sun Dec 12 2021

VFR conditions expected at all terminals the next 24 hrs. While
winds at all sites will stay mainly terrain driven under 15 kts,
there is a low risk of some gap flow wly winds gusting 20-25 kts at
KPUB in the late morning/early afternoon.

&&

.PUB WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
Red Flag Warning from 10 AM this morning to 5 PM MST this
afternoon for COZ221-222-226>230-233-237.

&&

SHORT TERM...PETERSEN
LONG TERM...PGW
AVIATION...PETERSEN

Hazardous weather outlook, Dec 12, 4:20 AM MST, 4 hours 45 minutes before

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Pueblo CO
420 AM MST Sun Dec 12 2021

COZ058>089-093>099-131200-
Western Mosquito Range/East Lake County Above 11000 Feet-
Leadville Vicinity/Lake County Below 11000 Feet-
Eastern Sawatch Mountains Above 11000 Feet-
Western Chaffee County Between 9000 and 11000 Feet-
Central Chaffee County Below 9000 Feet-
Western Mosquito Range/East Chaffee County Above 9000 Feet-
Saguache County West of Continental Divide Below 10000 Feet-
Saguache County East of Continental Divide Below 10000 Feet-
La Garita Mountains Above 10000 Feet-
Upper Rio Grande Valley/Eastern San Juan Mountains Below
10000 Feet-Eastern San Juan Mountains Above 10000 Feet-
Del Norte Vicinity/Northern San Luis Valley Below 8500 Feet-
Alamosa  Vicinity/Central San Luis Valley Below 8500 Feet-
Southern San Luis Valley-
Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 8500 And 11000 Feet-
Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Above 11000 Feet-
Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 and 11000 Feet-
Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Above 11000 Feet-
Northwestern Fremont County Above 8500 Feet-
Western/Central Fremont County Below 8500 Feet-
Wet Mountain Valley Below 8500 Feet-
Wet Mountains between 6300 and 10000 Feet-
Wet Mountains Above 10000 Feet-
Teller County/Rampart Range Above 7500 Feet/Pikes Peak Between
7500 And 11000 Feet-Pikes Peak Above 11000 Feet-
Canon City Vicinity/Eastern Fremont County-
Northern El Paso County/Monument Ridge/Rampart Range Below
7500 Feet-
Colorado Springs Vicinity/Southern El Paso County/Rampart Range
Below 7400 Feet-Pueblo Vicinity/Pueblo County Below 6300 Feet-
Walsenburg Vicinity/Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Feet-
Trinidad Vicinity/Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Feet-
Crowley County-La Junta Vicinity/Otero County-
Eastern Las Animas County-Western Kiowa County-
Eastern Kiowa County-Las Animas Vicinity/Bent County-
Lamar Vicinity/Prowers County-Springfield Vicinity/Baca County-
420 AM MST Sun Dec 12 2021

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of central...east
central...south central and southeast Colorado.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight

High fire danger will develop today over Teller and Fremont
Counties, the I-25 corridor and the southeast plains along the New
Mexico border, continuing into early this evening. West-southwest
winds will gust over 30 mph and relative humidity will fall below 15
percent in these areas, with a Red Flag Warning in effect.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday

On Monday, spotty areas of critical fire weather conditions are
possible along the eastern mountains and Interstate 25 corridor,
as gusty winds will develop through the gaps in the mountains.

A strong storm will move over the region Tuesday evening through
Wednesday. Heavy snow will be possible over the Continental Divide
region, especially the Eastern San Juan Mountains. There is also
the potential for strong to damaging winds over much of the
region.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Weather spotters will not be needed today or tonight.

10/06

The radar

The Pueblo radar (KPUX), 99 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 14:25 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

143 high wind, 1 heavy snow, 1 thunderstorm wind, 1 dust storm. Local standard time, as filed.

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 9:05 AM MST to 9:06 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 77 kt (89 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 9:30 AM MST to 9:31 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Power poles leaning across east bound highway 50, which is now closed for safety closure.

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 9:34 AM MST to 9:35 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 9:35 AM MST to 9:36 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 9:55 AM MST to 9:56 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 9:55 AM MST to 9:56 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 10:36 AM MST to 10:37 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County

When: December 12, 11:00 AM MST to 11:01 AM MST
Where: Canon City Vicinity / Eastern Fremont County forecast zone
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.488, -105.323 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reported powerlines down, 1/2 of neighbors metal roof blown off. Multiple sheds displaced into other yards.

Heavy Snow, Eastern San Juan Mountains Above 10000 Ft

When: December 14, 5:00 PM MST to December 15, 5:00 PM MST
Where: Eastern San Juan Mountains Above 10000 Ft forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.484, -106.500 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Public reported 12 inches of snow.

High Wind, Eastern San Juan Mountains Above 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 4:18 AM MST to 4:19 AM MST
Where: Eastern San Juan Mountains Above 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.484, -106.500 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Upper Rio Grande Valley / Eastern San Juan Mountains Below 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 5:58 AM MST to 5:59 AM MST
Where: Upper Rio Grande Valley / Eastern San Juan Mountains Below 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 67 kt (77 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.484, -106.500 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 6:13 AM MST to 6:14 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 6:28 AM MST to 6:29 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Alamosa Vicinity / Central San Luis Valley Below 8500 Ft

When: December 15, 6:54 AM MST to 6:55 AM MST
Where: Alamosa Vicinity / Central San Luis Valley Below 8500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.578, -106.085 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Alamosa Airport recorded a 64 MPH gust.

High Wind, Southern San Luis Valley

When: December 15, 7:07 AM MST to 7:08 AM MST
Where: Southern San Luis Valley forecast zone
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 37.240, -105.810 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Highway 142 closed near San Luis for downed power lines across road.

High Wind, Trinidad Vicinity / Lower Huerfano River Basin & Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 7:12 AM MST to 7:13 AM MST
Where: Trinidad Vicinity / Lower Huerfano River Basin & Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.316, -104.039 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 7:15 AM MST to 7:16 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Thunderstorm Wind, Pueblo

When: December 15, 7:24 AM MST to 7:25 AM MST
Where: Pueblo County, 1.29 mi ENE of (Pub)pueblo Muni Arp
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.300, -104.500

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 7:24 AM MST to 7:25 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Trinidad Vicinity / Lower Huerfano River Basin & Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 7:29 AM MST to 7:30 AM MST
Where: Trinidad Vicinity / Lower Huerfano River Basin & Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.316, -104.039 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 7:38 AM MST to 7:39 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 7:46 AM MST to 7:47 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 7:48 AM MST to 7:49 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 79 kt (91 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 7:54 AM MST to 7:55 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 7:55 AM MST to 7:56 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 7:57 AM MST to 7:58 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Upper Rio Grande Valley / Eastern San Juan Mountains Below 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 7:58 AM MST to 7:59 AM MST
Where: Upper Rio Grande Valley / Eastern San Juan Mountains Below 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.484, -106.500 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 7:58 AM MST to 7:59 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 8:08 AM MST to 8:09 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, La Junta Vicinity / Otero County

When: December 15, 8:10 AM MST to 8:11 AM MST
Where: La Junta Vicinity / Otero County forecast zone
Measured: 73 kt (84 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.903, -103.716 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Walsenburg Vicinity / Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 8:13 AM MST to 8:14 AM MST
Where: Walsenburg Vicinity / Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.685, -104.961 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Walsenburg Vicinity / Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 8:13 AM MST to 8:14 AM MST
Where: Walsenburg Vicinity / Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 68 kt (78 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.685, -104.961 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 8:20 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 8:26 AM MST to 8:27 AM MST
Where: Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.426, -104.809 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 8:30 AM MST to 8:31 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 8:44 AM MST to 8:45 AM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 93 kt (107 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Lamar Airport.

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 8:54 AM MST to 8:55 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 8:56 AM MST to 8:57 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 8:57 AM MST to 8:58 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 9:00 AM MST to 9:01 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 9:03 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Dust Storm, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 9:07 AM MST to 9:20 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reported visibility down to 1/4 mile for several minutes.

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:08 AM MST to 9:09 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:14 AM MST
Where: Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.426, -104.809 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Springfield Vicinity / Baca County

When: December 15, 9:18 AM MST to 9:19 AM MST
Where: Springfield Vicinity / Baca County forecast zone
Measured: 57 kt (66 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.319, -102.560 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 9:22 AM MST to 9:23 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 9:24 AM MST to 9:25 AM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reported that multiple trees are down on highway 50 between Lamar and Holly.

High Wind, Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:26 AM MST to 9:27 AM MST
Where: Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.426, -104.809 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:34 AM MST to 9:35 AM MST
Where: Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.426, -104.809 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 8500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:34 AM MST to 9:35 AM MST
Where: Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 8500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.992, -105.637 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:46 AM MST to 9:47 AM MST
Where: Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.426, -104.809 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 9:48 AM MST to 9:49 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 57 kt (66 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 9:50 AM MST to 9:51 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Trinidad Vicinity / Lower Huerfano River Basin & Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 9:54 AM MST to 9:55 AM MST
Where: Trinidad Vicinity / Lower Huerfano River Basin & Western Las Animas County Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.316, -104.039 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Central Chaffee County Below 9000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:55 AM MST to 9:56 AM MST
Where: Central Chaffee County Below 9000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.747, -106.194 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:55 AM MST to 9:56 AM MST
Where: Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.426, -104.809 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 9:56 AM MST to 9:57 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 9:56 AM MST to 9:57 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 9:56 AM MST to 9:57 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Photo off a downed tree in a front lawn in pueblo on twitter.

High Wind, Springfield Vicinity / Baca County

When: December 15, 9:56 AM MST to 9:57 AM MST
Where: Springfield Vicinity / Baca County forecast zone
Measured: 73 kt (84 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.319, -102.560 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 9:58 AM MST to 9:59 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Springfield Vicinity / Baca County

When: December 15, 9:59 AM MST to 10:00 AM MST
Where: Springfield Vicinity / Baca County forecast zone
Measured: 71 kt (82 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.319, -102.560 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:08 AM MST to 10:09 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:10 AM MST to 10:11 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 10:10 AM MST to 10:11 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 10:15 AM MST to 10:16 AM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: County Official
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Widespread power outages in Lamar.

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 10:16 AM MST to 10:17 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 77 kt (89 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, La Junta Vicinity / Otero County

When: December 15, 10:18 AM MST to 10:19 AM MST
Where: La Junta Vicinity / Otero County forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.903, -103.716 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Power lines down between Rocky Ford and Manzanola.

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 10:20 AM MST to 10:21 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 67 kt (77 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Springfield Vicinity / Baca County

When: December 15, 10:21 AM MST to 10:22 AM MST
Where: Springfield Vicinity / Baca County forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.319, -102.560 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Highway 287 is closed from Springfield to Wiley due to multiple vehicle crashes with near zero visibility in blowing dust and power lines down.

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 10:22 AM MST to 10:23 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Two foot diameter tree blown down.

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:31 AM MST to 10:32 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:32 AM MST to 10:33 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 8500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:34 AM MST to 10:35 AM MST
Where: Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains Between 8500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.992, -105.637 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:36 AM MST to 10:37 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 76 kt (87 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:38 AM MST to 10:39 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:38 AM MST to 10:39 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 10:40 AM MST to 10:41 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reported 1/2 of roof blown off.

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:41 AM MST to 10:42 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 68 kt (78 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:43 AM MST to 10:44 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:43 AM MST to 10:44 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 79 kt (91 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:44 AM MST to 10:45 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Report of 7 car windows parked at Garden of the Gods that have been blown out.

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:46 AM MST to 10:47 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 80 kt (92 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:46 AM MST to 10:47 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:48 AM MST to 10:49 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:50 AM MST to 10:51 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:51 AM MST to 10:52 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 82 kt (94 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Other Federal Agency
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:51 AM MST to 10:52 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:54 AM MST to 10:55 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:55 AM MST to 10:56 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:56 AM MST to 10:57 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Walsenburg Vicinity / Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:56 AM MST to 10:57 AM MST
Where: Walsenburg Vicinity / Upper Huerfano River Basin Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 69 kt (79 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.685, -104.961 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 10:58 AM MST to 10:59 AM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:58 AM MST to 10:59 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 79 kt (91 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 10:58 AM MST to 10:59 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 10:58 AM MST to 10:59 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 68 kt (78 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:00 AM MST to 11:01 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 73 kt (84 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 11:01 AM MST to 11:03 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 71 kt (82 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:10 AM MST to 11:11 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 11:16 AM MST to 11:17 AM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:18 AM MST to 11:19 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 87 kt (100 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 11:19 AM MST to 11:20 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 11:24 AM MST to 11:25 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:25 AM MST to 11:26 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 11:30 AM MST to 11:31 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 11:30 AM MST to 11:31 AM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 11:31 AM MST to 11:32 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 80 kt (92 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 11:35 AM MST to 11:36 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:35 AM MST to 11:36 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 11:35 AM MST to 11:36 AM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:39 AM MST to 11:40 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 71 kt (82 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:51 AM MST to 11:52 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, La Junta Vicinity / Otero County

When: December 15, 11:53 AM MST to 11:54 AM MST
Where: La Junta Vicinity / Otero County forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Deaths: 1 direct, 0 indirect
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 37.903, -103.716 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Airport recorded a 81 MPH gust. Unfortunately there was a direct fatality associated with the damaging winds in La Junta. A city worker was killed while clearing debris from the side of a road and a tree fell on him.

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 11:54 AM MST to 11:55 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:55 AM MST to 11:56 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 64 kt (74 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 11:56 AM MST to 11:57 AM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 88 kt (101 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:58 AM MST to 11:59 AM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 79 kt (91 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:58 AM MST to 11:59 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 11:58 AM MST to 11:59 AM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:00 PM MST to 12:01 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 12:00 PM MST to 12:01 PM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Eastern Kiowa County

When: December 15, 12:04 PM MST to 12:05 PM MST
Where: Eastern Kiowa County forecast zone
Measured: 80 kt (92 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 38.433, -102.740 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Grain bins were damaged, the blue post office mail box blew down the street, and several trees blown down in Sheridan Lake.

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:10 PM MST to 12:11 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 81 kt (93 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:10 PM MST to 12:11 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 74 kt (85 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, La Junta Vicinity / Otero County

When: December 15, 12:10 PM MST to 12:11 PM MST
Where: La Junta Vicinity / Otero County forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 37.903, -103.716 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reports of several dozen, high-voltage power lines down between Fowler, Manzanola, and Rocky Rord, some of which are on railroad tracks and blocking roads.

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:18 PM MST to 12:19 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 78 kt (90 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:19 PM MST to 12:20 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 81 kt (93 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:20 PM MST to 12:21 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 75 kt (86 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Eastern Las Animas County

When: December 15, 12:23 PM MST to 12:24 PM MST
Where: Eastern Las Animas County forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.316, -104.039 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:25 PM MST to 12:26 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 79 kt (91 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:25 PM MST to 12:26 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:32 PM MST to 12:33 PM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 12:35 PM MST to 12:36 PM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 73 kt (84 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 12:35 PM MST to 12:36 PM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:50 PM MST to 12:51 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Trained spotter el28 called to report wind damage, antenna tower was blown down at site.

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 12:54 PM MST to 12:55 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 80 kt (92 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County

When: December 15, 1:06 PM MST to 1:07 PM MST
Where: Lamar Vicinity / Prowers County forecast zone
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 37.955, -102.393 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 1:09 PM MST to 1:10 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 1:34 PM MST
Where: Northern El Paso County / Monument Ridge / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Three-inch tree limbs broken with power poles broken.

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 1:39 PM MST to 1:40 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Three-inch tree limbs broken with power poles broken.

High Wind, Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft

When: December 15, 1:56 PM MST to 1:57 PM MST
Where: Wet Mountains Between 8500 and 10000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 68 kt (78 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.110, -105.070 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft

When: December 15, 2:00 PM MST to 2:01 PM MST
Where: Pueblo Vicinity / Pueblo County Below 6300 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.173, -104.513 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reports of damage across the north side of pueblo, including many downed trees and power outages, including both houses and street lights.

High Wind, Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft

When: December 15, 2:01 PM MST to 2:02 PM MST
Where: Teller County / Rampart Range Above 7500 Ft / Pikes Peak Between 7500 & 11000 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 80 kt (92 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.729, -105.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Eastern Kiowa County

When: December 15, 2:04 PM MST to 2:05 PM MST
Where: Eastern Kiowa County forecast zone
Measured: 80 kt (92 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 38.433, -102.740 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Reports of numerous branches blown off of trees, some up to 6 inches in diameter in Towner.

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 2:40 PM MST to 2:41 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 59 kt (68 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High Wind, Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft

When: December 15, 2:50 PM MST to 2:51 PM MST
Where: Colorado Springs Vicinity / Southern El Paso County / Rampart Range Below 7500 Ft forecast zone
Measured: 70 kt (81 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Mesonet
Coordinates: 38.832, -104.526 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The people who died

As the offices recorded each death: direct deaths were caused by the weather itself, indirect ones by something it set in motion.

Event	Date	Age	Sex	Where	Kind
High Wind, La Junta Vicinity / Otero County	2021-12-15		Male	Under Tree	Direct

What these are

High Wind: Sustained non-thunderstorm winds of 40 mph or more for an hour, or gusts of 58 mph or more.
Heavy Snow: Snowfall reaching the local warning threshold without the other hazards of a winter storm.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Dust Storm: Blowing dust that reduced visibility to a quarter mile or less.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Colorado in 2021 Every state in 2021 This day in weather history Warnings in Colorado, December 2021

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 997887, 997891, 997892, 997888, 997889, 997895, 997894, 997885, 997809, 997846, 997843, 997856, 998066, 997434, 997847, 998087, 998074, 994935, 998075, 997828, 997858, 997855, 997857, 997908, 997882, 998061, 997844, 998072, 998067, 998089, 998084, 998085, 997871, 997853, 997862, 998101, 997883, 997863, 998062, 998068, and more.