Winter Storm Warning Update: 'Anomalous' Heavy Snow Up to 3 Feet Approaches Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas

The National Weather Service issued a new series of winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories as up to three feet of snow approaches.

A significant winter storm has already begun in the Rocky Mountains and is now expected to bring heavy snow through Wednesday evening.

"Latest afternoon guidance indicates additional snowfall probabilities over 4 inches at 50-80% from Cheyenne southward to Denver and the Palmer Divide," the National Weather Service said.

"Probabilities for snow amounts over 8 inches are at 50-90% from the Front Range and central Continental Divide mountains, including Sangre de Cristos and San Juans. High elevations, including Rocky Mountain National Park, have 60-90% chances for seeing snowfall over a foot."

'Anomalous' Winter Storm Bringing 3 Feet of Snow

The National Weather Service said this "anomalous" May winter storm will bring moderate winter storm impacts and travel will be difficult.

Colorado is expected to see the brunt of the storm with the Denver metro area looking at 3-6 inches of snow while high totals in the Rockies are expected to hit 12-18 inches. Accuweather's Local StormMax forecast, though, calls for up to 36 inches or 3 feet of snow.

"This storm could rival the biggest storm of the season for Denver," AccuWeather Meteorologist Tony Laubach said. "The most a single storm brought to the metro area this past winter was 8.5 inches on March 6."

Wyoming, meanwhile, is bracing for heavy winter snow of its own, with up to 14 inches in the forecast. The National Weather Service issued a warning regarding outdoor activities in the region.

"Outdoor recreation could become dangerous to those caught unprepared for hazardous winter conditions. Hunters, hikers, and snowmobilers may become disoriented and lost due to low visibility in falling and blowing snow," it said.

Areas of Kansas are also looking at up to five inches of snowfall and the NWS issued a travel warning for those in the Southeastern portion of the state.

"Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while driving. If you are going outside, watch your first few steps taken on stairs, sidewalks, and driveways. These surfaces could be icy and slippery, increasing your risk of a fall and injury," it said.

The winter storm warnings are in effect through Wednesday morning.

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