After several days of spring-like weather, the Snow Moon (the full moon of February) set behind the Rockies this morning. Before it rises again, we are expected to receive our next snowstorm here in Metro Denver.
Named for the fact that February tends to be a snowy month across much of the Northern Hemisphere, the Snow Moon is especially prescient along the Front Range since it signals the onset of the snowiest period of the year, lasting from February through April. Fortunately, these upslope storms are interspersed with days (if not weeks) of mild, sunny weather, clearing away the drifts before the next storm arrives.
Indeed, the Snow Moon is a welcome omen here, promising that our semi-arid landscape (and our water supply) will receive the precipitation so vital to this environment. Even when it crushes the flower beds, spring snow is celebrated in Colorado.
