qUpslope storms occur when relatively moist, easterly winds blow westward across the plains and up the east slope of
the Rockies.
qTwo pressure patterns produce easterly winds: (1) a high-pressure system located north of the Colorado and (2) a low-pressure system located south of
Colorado.
qFor the high-pressure system, cold and relatively dry Canadian air produces light
snow
accumulation.
qFor the low-pressure system, warm and moist air from Gulf of Mexico produces snow with higher water equivalent.
qExceptionally blizzards occur when both pressure patterns occur simultaneously.