Wednesday October 30 will bring the first winter blast to the state of Colorado this 2024/2025 cold season... with a freeze warning in effect for much of the state, including right here in Northern Colorado.

The mountains are set to see some snow, with winter weather advisories in effect for much of the high country in anticipation of heavy snow and windy conditions possible.

Here in Northern Colorado, down along the lower elevations, it's not so much snow we need to worry about as this freeze warning:

FREEZE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM WEDNESDAY TO 9 AM MDT THURSDAY...

* WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 22 expected.

* WHERE...Fort Collins, Boulder and the western suburbs of Denver, Denver, Castle Rock, Greeley, and Byers.

* WHEN...From 10 PM Wednesday to 9 AM MDT Thursday.

* IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions are expected kill
unprotected sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold and drain irrigation systems.

Many people still haven't put away their summer stuff and may not be ready for the colder weather. In order to prepare your home for the first freeze, here's five tips for quick things you may be able to do in order to prepare.

1. Insulate Outdoor Pipes and Faucets

Pipes exposed to freezing temperatures can burst, leading to expensive water damage. You can wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas (like attics, basements, and garages) with foam pipe insulation. Consider installing outdoor faucet covers and insulating hose bibs, and disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.

2. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Drafts around windows, doors, and other openings allow cold air in, increasing heating costs.
Pick up some weatherstripping to use around doors and windows, caulk around any gaps, and add door sweeps to prevent cold drafts.

3. Check and Clean Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which prevent melting snow or rain from draining properly and can cause roof leaks. Clear leaves, debris, and any obstructions from gutters and downspouts.

4. Service Your Heating System

A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently and can prevent unexpected breakdowns. Replace air filters and clean or service furnaces, boilers, and HVAC units.

5. Add Extra Insulation Where Needed

Proper insulation reduces heat loss and lowers heating costs. Check your attic and basement insulation, as these areas often lose the most heat. Adding insulation to attics, walls, and basements can make a significant difference in indoor warmth and energy savings.

15 Signs That Mean Extra Winter Snow In Colorado

Hoping for a cold and snowy winter? By paying attention to these indicators, Coloradans can get an early sense of how the upcoming winter might play out.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

When Colorado Cities Can Expect First Snow Fall?

When can we expect the first snowfall in Colorado? According to the National Weather Service, the mean date for the first measurable snow in the state of Colorado is October 18th. Oddly, the actual first snows in the state rarely fall on that date.

Here's a look at a number of records for the earliest measurable snowfalls around Colorado. Information comes courtesy of the National Weather Service, Extreme Weather Watch, and 9News.

Gallery Credit: Waylon Jordan