Rare ‘Snownado’ Captured on Video in Colorado’s Divide Area
DIVIDE, Colo. — On the evening of February 4, 2026, residents of the Divide area witnessed a rare meteorological event when a “snownado,” also known as a snow devil, briefly touched down, stirring snow into a swirling whirlwind. Mandy Campbell, a local resident, captured the fleeting phenomenon on video and shared it on social media, describing her awe at the sight. “I was so mesmerized that I didn’t record it until the very end,” Campbell wrote, highlighting the captivating nature of the event.
The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed the touchdown of the snow devil Tuesday night, providing official recognition of the unusual occurrence. Snow devils are the wintertime counterparts to dust devils — small, rapidly rotating columns of air that lift loose snow instead of dust or debris. Sydney Jackson, chief meteorologist for KKTV 11, explained the rarity of such events in the region. “We don’t see this all the time,” she said. “So think of like a dust devil that you may have seen before, but this with snow in Divide.”
Jackson further described the snownado as “pretty quick moving, but pretty tall as well,” emphasizing the dynamic and transient nature of the phenomenon. Snow devils typically form under clear skies and light wind conditions when cold air meets a warmer surface, creating the necessary convection to spin a column of air. However, their brief lifespan and specific atmospheric conditions make them a seldom-seen spectacle.
The video captured by Campbell offers a rare glimpse into this elusive weather event, contributing to public awareness and scientific interest. The NWS continues to monitor such phenomena to better understand their formation and potential impacts. For more detailed information on snow devils and related weather phenomena, the National Weather Service provides extensive resources.
This event adds to the growing catalog of unusual weather occurrences documented across the United States, highlighting the diverse and sometimes surprising nature of atmospheric dynamics. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) supports ongoing research into these phenomena, aiming to improve forecasting and public safety.
Residents of Colorado and other snow-prone regions are encouraged to stay informed about local weather conditions through official channels such as the Ready.gov Winter Weather Safety page, which offers guidance on preparing for and responding to winter storms and related hazards.
As climate patterns continue to evolve, the documentation and study of rare events like snownados become increasingly important. They not only captivate observers but also provide valuable data for meteorologists and climate scientists working to unravel the complexities of our atmosphere.
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