Last Updated on October 26, 2026 by Brian Beck
What Colorado homeowners should know—and why preparing now makes sense.
Updated October 26, 2026
You have probably seen the headlines: “Behemoth.” “Super El Niño.” “Off the charts.”
Those descriptions get attention. But homeowners here in Colorado Springs need an answer to a more practical question: What should we actually do about it?
The latest forecasts warrant attention. They do not guarantee record snowfall in your driveway. They do give us a good reason to review our winter preparations before weather becomes a problem.
After more than three decades working on local landscapes, I believe preparation is most valuable before the urgency arrives.
What forecasters are saying
In its October 21 statement, the World Meteorological Organization warned that the current El Niño could reach unprecedented strength. Its outlook projects tropical Pacific sea-surface temperatures potentially reaching approximately 3.8°C above average during November through January, with the event expected to peak around December.
That number describes ocean temperatures—not how much warmer Colorado will become, and not how much snow we will receive. It is also a forecast, rather than a confirmed seasonal peak.
El Niño changes atmospheric circulation and influences where storms travel. NOAA’s winter outlook favors wetter conditions across much of the southern United States, including the Southwest. However, Colorado sits near a transition between regions with different responses. Our mountains and individual storm tracks make the local outcome more complicated.
What this could mean for the Front Range
Colorado Climate Center research identifies a historical tendency toward wetter fall and spring conditions during El Niño. Along the Front Range and eastern plains, that includes increased opportunity for large spring snowstorms.
The relationship with statewide mountain snowpack is weaker. A powerful El Niño does not automatically produce an exceptional snow season everywhere in Colorado.
We should therefore prepare for several possibilities: meaningful storms, interruptions to normal routines, and dry stretches between weather systems.
You do not need a record winter to have a difficult morning
One substantial storm can interfere with work, appointments, deliveries and access to your property.
My recommendation is to look at your snow-removal plan now:
- Check that your equipment operates properly and is ready to use.
- Make sure someone is responsible for clearing essential access.
- Consider what happens when you are traveling or unable to shovel.
- If you use a contractor, confirm service arrangements before a storm is approaching.
- If you are considering snow-removal automation, allow time to evaluate your property, installation requirements and equipment limitations.
Automation deserves a thoughtful assessment. Driveway layout, slopes, available snow-placement areas and expected conditions all matter. The goal is to choose an appropriate solution while you have time to make an informed decision.
Do not let a snowy forecast distract you from dry soil
A seasonal forecast cannot tell you whether your lawn’s root zone has enough water today.
Colorado State University Extension recommends watering lawns, trees, shrubs and perennials during prolonged dry fall and winter periods. Its guidance calls for air and soil temperatures above 40°F, with no snow cover.
That supports an important principle in our biological soil program: respond to the conditions on your property.
Grass slowing down does not mean we should stop paying attention. Check soil moisture, account for actual precipitation and arrange supplemental watering when needed and conditions permit.
Irrigation freeze protection also requires its own plan. An El Niño outlook cannot establish a safe shutdown date. Customers using our Weather Bender should continue following their system-specific operating guidance and local forecasts.
Stay informed without chasing every headline
Seasonal outlooks help us understand broad possibilities. Local forecasts and National Weather Service alerts guide decisions about a particular storm.
NOAA specifically notes that its seasonal outlook does not predict snowfall accumulations. A forecast favoring more precipitation is not a forecast for a particular number of inches in Colorado Springs.
Use the seasonal outlook to prepare. Use the local forecast to act.
At Front Range Biological & Lawn Automation, we encourage homeowners to address potential problems while there is still time to plan. That includes soil hydration, irrigation protection and practical options for reducing the work of maintaining your property.
If you would like help reviewing your property’s winter readiness or exploring snow-removal automation, contact our team.
We cannot promise what this winter will deliver. We can help you prepare so that the next storm—or the next prolonged dry spell—does not catch you off guard.