Colorado

Colorado spans from high plains (3,500 ft) to mountain peaks (14,000+ ft). This extreme elevation range creates dramatic variations in building requirements. Key hazards: WILDFIRE — WUI zones cover much of the Front Range and mountain communities (Marshall Fire 2021 destroyed 1,000+ homes). HAIL — Colorado is one of the most hail-prone states; Front Range corridor sees frequent severe hailstorms. HIGH WINDS — Front Range Chinook winds can exceed 100 mph; ASCE 7 maps show 105-225 mph design speeds. SNOW — mountain areas see 300+ inches annually; ground snow loads reach 90+ psf. AVALANCHE — risk in mountain communities. Seismic risk is low to moderate (Category A/B). Climate Zones 4B-7 mean energy codes vary dramatically by location.