This piece is part of Yellow Scene Magazine’s Opinion section. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent a reported news position. At Yellow Scene, opinion pieces speak freely, challenge assumptions, and say the quiet parts out loud.

Featured Photo by Jamie Lammers: a pile of trees, April 2026, removed after a windstorm in March

My parents and I have heard stories of people leaving Colorado because they couldn’t take the wind anymore. We’ve always been able to keep our heads in heavy winds, but we’ve never seen anything like this.

Yes, we’ve seen intense winds. Yes, they’ve shaken the house and knocked down trees. Yes, they’ve cut power for hours on end. This winter felt far different.

In mid-December, Xcel Energy implemented a Public Safety Power Shutdown during intense winds. In the foothills of Coal Creek, my parents and I, United Power consumers, huddled outside the outage zone.

However, the winds ultimately hit us, too, resulting in a full power outage that lasted through the night. Our service and internet stayed down into the next day.

Already living somewhat isolated from larger Colorado towns, we had to ride out the storm with no connection to the outside world. My parents have owned this house since 1987. They’ve never experienced a power outage longer than a few hours, and we’ve never had service and internet down at the same time.

On March 12th and 13th, harsh winds hitting speeds above 60 mph took our power down again. It uprooted trees in our yard and beyond, crushed our mailboxes, and killed our power for over 24 hours. The previous record-breaking power outage in December lasted 19 hours.

Taken by Jamie Lammers: a tree knocked over by the wind outside his home in March.

We were more prepared this time, making sure we had a spare supply of water as the winds picked up. Once again, we had to ride it out, cloistered together in the mountains.

Somehow, we got lucky with the wind speed. Buckeye, Rocky Flats, and Nederland (my home away from home) experienced winds whipping at speeds as high as 94 mph.

Outside of my mountain home, the winds delayed hundreds of flights and shut down several highways. Soon after, Xcel announced that up to 18,000 customers had been left without power from 4 p.m. on March 14th.

The dry winter Colorado is experiencing has only made these even more problematic. Wind supplies oxygen and carries heat to already dry places, removing even more moisture and increasing fire danger.

The City of Boulder temporarily closed trails and open space west of U.S. 36 following March’s power shutdown. A couple of weeks into spring, red flag warnings and weather warnings are still being placed in Colorado.

As a lifelong Colorado resident, I’m concerned about the lack of snow this winter. Our average snowpack continues to decrease, and the days sprinkled with snowfall this year are vastly outnumbered by the days when not a single snowflake landed.

Xcel has said they do not implement shutoffs lightly, considering them a last resort. Given that they implemented two this winter, in a span of four months, we should recognize the concerns raised by our current conditions. Next winter, which will matter more for our community: power or protection?

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The post Op-Ed: The Changing Winds of Colorado appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Colorado is entering spring after one of the warmest and driest starts to a year in more than a century of records., with snowpack across the state far below normal and drought conditions expanding across much of the Front Range.

Against that backdrop, the Town of Erie is asking residents, homeowners associations, and businesses to keep sprinkler systems turned off through the end of March as water demand surges beyond what the town’s winter system can supply.

Officials say current water demand is about 30 percent higher than typical for this time of year, largely driven by residents turning on irrigation systems weeks earlier than normal.

If irrigation continues, the town says it may shut off water service at property taps for residents, HOAs, or businesses that do not comply.

For large HOAs, the shutoff would typically affect irrigation systems only. For individual homes or smaller properties, however, the measure could cut water service to the entire household or building.

Town officials say they have been urging residents for roughly two weeks to turn off sprinklers, but demand has continued climbing.

“We really don’t have any buffer room,” town spokesperson Gabi Rae told the Denver Post. “Every day it’s been increasing by 200,000 to 300,000 gallons as people turn on their sprinkler systems. We will hit capacity and run out of water in a couple of days if they don’t stop.”

Erie’s winter water system currently distributes about 3.5 million gallons per day, far less than what becomes available once summer water supplies come online.

Black line shows 2026 snowpack levels falling below the state’s previously recorded minimum. (Natural Resources Conservation Service)

A Dry Winter Across Colorado

The situation in Erie reflects broader conditions across Colorado.

State data shows Colorado’s snowpack currently sits well below normal, with several watersheds between roughly 38 percent and 65 percent of typical levels for this time of year, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Governor Jared Polis recently activated the Colorado Drought Task Force, citing record warmth and one of the driest starts to a year in more than a century of statewide records.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, moderate to severe drought conditions now cover much of Colorado.

Meteorologists say the unusually warm winter has prevented snowpack from building to the levels normally needed to replenish rivers and reservoirs in the spring.

Photo credit: Longmont firefighter Patrick Kramer

Early Fire Season Concerns

The dry winter is also raising concerns about early wildfire risk along the Front Range.

Warm temperatures, strong winds, and dry vegetation can quickly turn small grass fires into fast-moving blazes, even outside the traditional summer fire season.

The Marshall Fire, which destroyed more than 1,000 homes in Boulder County in December 2021, demonstrated how quickly wind-driven fires can spread across the Front Range during dry conditions.

For communities like Erie, maintaining adequate water supply is not only about household demand but also about fire protection and hydrant pressure during emergency situations.

Town officials noted that upcoming windy conditions could further increase fire danger in the region.

Other Cities Preparing Water Restrictions

Erie is not the only community beginning to respond to the dry winter.

In Aurora, officials are recommending Stage I watering restrictions that could take effect April 7 if approved by city leaders. The proposed rules would limit outdoor watering to two days per week and call for a 20 percent reduction in overall water use.

Nearby Lafayette has also asked residents to refrain from running irrigation systems.

Water managers across the Front Range warn that drought conditions could affect municipal water supplies throughout the coming spring and summer if the region does not receive significant precipitation.

Waiting for Summer Water Supplies

Erie officials say part of the problem is timing.

During winter months, the town receives less water through its supply system than it does during the summer irrigation season. Additional supplies typically arrive in early spring when the Carter Lake canal system begins distributing water.

“That’s what we’re waiting for,” Rae said.

• The canal system is expected to open April 1, after which Erie can begin transitioning toward normal irrigation schedules.

Until then, the town is asking residents to delay outdoor watering as long as possible.

At the earliest, Erie recommends:

• Even numbered addresses begin irrigation April 4
• Odd numbered addresses begin irrigation April 6

Residents may still use a hose to water trees, shrubs, and gardens, but officials are asking the community not to water turf grass.

Regional Water Projects Face Uncertainty

Longer term water supply questions also remain across northern Colorado.

One major project intended to help meet future demand is the Northern Integrated Supply Project (NISP), a proposed reservoir system designed to provide water storage for growing Front Range communities.

However, the project has faced rising costs and increasing scrutiny. In 2025, the Fort Collins Loveland Water District, one of NISP’s largest participants, announced it was reviewing whether to remain involved due to escalating costs and financial risks.

The cost of the project has climbed from an early estimate of roughly $400 million to more than $2 billion.

Other regional water projects, including Windy Gap and Chimney Hollow, have also experienced delays tied to construction issues and environmental concerns.

While those projects are intended to expand long term supply, Erie officials say the current issue is much simpler.

With drought conditions worsening and irrigation starting early, the town’s winter water system simply cannot keep up with demand.

Like journalism like this? Consider becoming a sustaining supporter — and get our print edition delivered to your home each month.

Democracy needs journalism more than ever. For 25 years, we’ve told the truth — your support helps us keep doing it for the next four and beyond. Administrations come and go. Our team stays, ready to lead no matter who’s in charge.

The post Erie Moves First on Irrigation Limits as Drought and Historic Low Snowpack Grip Colorado appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

City of Louisville, Colorado

749 Main St, Louisville, CO 80027

Website | (303) 666-6565

Red flag warning in effect through 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, February 24

The National Weather Service in Boulder has issued a Red Flag Warning in effect from 10 a.m until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24 for an area including eastern Boulder County. High winds and low relative humidity have created conditions favorable for rapid fire spread.

Stage 1 fire restriction remain in effect in Louisville.

What you should do:

• No outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark
• Have a go bag ready and be prepared for wildfires

What is a Red Flag Warning?

The National Weather Service will issue a Red Flag Warning when there’s an increased risk of fire danger. A Red Flag Warning means that the conditions are right for the start or rapid spread of wildfires, and that extra precautions should be taken to prevent them. Low humidity, strong winds, and dry fuels pose an increased risk of fire danger, prompting heightened fire awareness and safety precautions.

What you should do on Red Flag days:

Avoid any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire. This includes avoiding open burning, avoiding mowing operations or dragging chains, or operating any equipment that produces sparks or has open flames.

On Red Flag days, residents should be prepared for possible power outages. Xcel Energy (our power provider in Louisville) may be using Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings on Red Flag Days. Learn more about how to prepare for power outages on Boulder County’s website.

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Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

Queue the music:
“Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Halleeeeluuuujaaaaaah!”

After a week shaped by intense winds, storm damage, and unexpected power outages, we hope you and your loved ones stayed safe!

Due to storm-related damage affecting our specific power sources, The Sink was forced to remain closed for more than four days while we waited on repairs from Xcel Energy. During that time, our team worked behind the scenes to protect the restaurant, including securing a refrigerated truck to keep food safe and leaning on the help of some truly wonderful neighbors. As of 11 AM, we have 100% power! We’re working fast to get everything back to normal and plan to open the restaurant at 4 PM.

What many people don’t see is that when a restaurant closes, even briefly, staff lose work. All hourly team members at The Sink share in a tip pool, and four days without power meant four days without shifts during an important time of year.

We’re finally back open and heading into the holidays grateful, humbled, and ready to serve our community again. If you’re planning a night out, a holiday meal, or a festive cocktail, we’d love for you to consider The Sink. Supporting local helps support the people who make them special

To make visiting easier this week, the City of Boulder is offering free parking on street-metered spaces (this includes University Hill!) and parking garages through Christmas.

The Sink will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but we’re always open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day!

Thank you all for supporting local, for your patience, and for continuing to show up for this community. We’re grateful to be part of it and look forward to welcoming you back in.

Happy Holidays — The Sink Team

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Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

Due to the recent high wind and fire danger events in the Boulder area, all Open Space and Mountain Parks properties and trail systems will remain closed overnight with a goal to open the system on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 9 a.m.? Staff will begin inspecting trailheads and trails at daybreak to ensure areas are safe to open for visitor use after the unprecedented weather conditions.

We want to remind visitors that some areas might need to remain closed due to unsafe conditions from fallen trees and to be aware of dangers while visiting OSMP trails.? Staff will be in the assessment phase of responding to the storm for a few weeks and will not be able to clear debris from the more than 150 miles of trails for many days.??

Extreme Caution Urged?

Use extreme caution when visiting the trails. Visitors may encounter trees blocking trails, overhead dangers such as loose branches hanging above the trails and large trees blown over and leaning above trailheads and trails.? In addition, some visitor amenities might be closed due to damaged doors on restrooms and broken fencing and gates.? Please be sure to check the OSMP Closures webpage for the latest trail closures before visiting.???

Report Safety Concerns?

If visitors observe hazards on trails and want to report the location, please make a Request for Maintenance on Open Space and Mountain Parks and be sure to provide as much detail as possible about the location including images and GPS coordinates if available.

Prevent Wildfires?

In addition, the areas around Boulder continue to be exceptionally dry and with no snow cover, wildfire continues to be a concern.? Please exercise extreme caution while visiting OSMP to prevent any ignition of wildfire.?

Recreation Centers

The city also hopes to re-open recreation centers and facilities tomorrow, assuming that power has been restored. Additional information will be shared about the status of each center in the morning. Please check the city’s website or text BPRnow to 888777 to receive text updates about facilities sent to your phone.

Power Restoration/Recovery Efforts

Xcel Energy crews will be working hard throughout our community tonight and tomorrow to restore power. Please give them space to do their work.

City and county staff will continue to staff the Emergency Operations Center throughout the day. Make sure you are signed up to receive urgent emergency alerts from police or fire officials at www.bocoalert.org. Additional helpful public safety information is available on the Office of Disaster Management’s website. You can also sign up to receive this information on your phone by texting BOCOinfo to 888777.

If you wish to receive alerts and safety information in a language other than English, please download the Reachwell app on your phone. You will have an option to select the language that works best for you. It is important that you select two separate categories – BOCOalert and BOCOinfo – to ensure you receive all messages during an emergency. The city also encourages you to turn on audible notifications within the app so you will be made aware when new messages are available.

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