The first significant snowfall of the season officially hit Colorado’s peaks this week, with several inches falling in some parts of the state. While warmer temperatures over the weekend are expected to melt that layer of snow, images from Thursday morning show a drastic departure from the summery conditions that have prevailed for several months.

This should serve as a reminder that climbers should now be prepared for possible fall conditions in the mountains, as light snow can create slippery conditions and significantly increase the risk of mountaineering, particularly on ‘class three’ peaks and above where a lot of climbing is required. Not to mention the cooler temperatures on all peaks, which will require warmer layers of clothing.

While this weekend should be dry and warm in most parts of Colorado, another round of light snow is expected in the state next week.

According to reports from Mountain-Forecast.com, a few more inches of snow could fall in high elevation regions on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. Under similar conditions this week, snow fell at elevations of only 11,000 to 12,000 feet, according to the National Weather Service.

For most Colorado residents, this precipitation means only heavy rain, which is always accompanied by flooding and visibility risks. Impacts from snow are expected to be minimal to nonexistent.

A complete statewide weather forecast can be found here on the National Weather Service website and summit-specific forecasts can be found on Mountain-Forecast.com. Always check the forecast before any outdoor adventure.