Mines For International Students

In the event of an emergency while in the United States, dial:

911

Non-emergency police number for Jefferson County, Colorado:

303-384-8045

Planning Ahead

Colorado is known for its fast changing weather conditions. 

It is usually a good idea to bring layers of clothing (at least some type of jacket) with you at all times in case the weather changes rapidly.

Always check for current local weather conditions when planning your day.

What do we call ourselves?

Citizens of the United States are called Americans, and citizens of Colorado are called Coloradans. Americans tend to refer to the U.S simply as "America".

Population

Discussing sports and professional sports teams is a common hobby for both men and women in America. Discussing these teams, or attending a game, is a great way to get insight into American culture. 

Seasons

Colorado has four distinct seasons. 

Spring: late March to late June

While plants begin to bloom in Colorado around spring time, the weather can still get pretty cold. March is usually the snowiest month in Colorado, while some snowfall could occur even in May. 

Summer:  late June to late September

Summer in Colorado is quite pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and a lot of sun. However, the combination of dry air and warm weather during this time makes Colorado susceptible to forest fires.Temperatures reach their peaks in July, with an average high of 73ºF (23ºC) and an average low of 48ºF (9ºC) in Golden. Many Coloradans spend a significant portion of their summer outdoors, whether shopping, going on hikes, going to a pool, or just relaxing in the sun. 

Fall/Autumn: late September to late December

During the fall, temperatures start to get more brisk and wind picks up. The leaves of some trees change color and fall off during this time, creating beautiful landscapes of red, orange, and yellow across Colorado's forests. October usually brings the first snowfall of the season. 

Winter: late December to late March

Colorado's winters are not for the faint of heart. Temperatures in Golden are their coldest in December, with an average high of 33ºF (0.5ºC) and an average low of 14ºF (-10ºC). Many Coloradans head to the Rocky Mountains during this time to take advantage of the numerous ski and snowboarding resorts. 

Overview

Colorado has the highest average elevation of any state in the United States. Colorado's capital city, Denver, is nicknamed "The Mile High City" because it's elevation is 5,280 feet (1 mile) above sea level. The city of Golden is even higher, at 5,675 feet, or 1,730 meters, above sea level, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. If you travel further into the beautiful Rockies, elevations can reach up to over 14,000 feet (4,267.2 meters) above sea level. 

Altitude Sickness

With increased elevation, oxygen levels decrease, making it harder to breathe. People who aren't used to Colorado's thin air might experience symptoms of altitude sickness, including:

• Shortness of breath (especially with physical exertion)
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Dizziness 
• Rapid heartbeat
• Muscle aches
• Sleep problems

It may take a few days, or even weeks, for your body to completely adjust to high altitude. Here are some tips for preventing and helping symptoms:

• Drink lots of water
• Avoid strenuous physical activity/exercise
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol intake
• Eat potassium-rich foods
• Get an adequate amount of sleep
• If possible, go to a lower elevation/avoid climbing higher in elevation until symptoms disappear
• Over the counter drugs are available for reducing headaches