Commerce City is also known for experiencing unusual weather patterns, which have been attributed to the microcli-
mate created by the industrial activities, particularly those of the Suncor refinery. The cityās unique weather conditions have led to a situation where its weather can be distinctly different from that of the surrounding areas, including Denver. The microclimate is influenced by the heat, emissions, and particulates released by the industrial operations, resulting in
localized weather anomalies.
One such anomaly was the frequent appearance of double and even triple rainbows, phenomena that became a regular
occurrence during our time in Commerce City. These vibrant displays of refracted light were both beautiful and eerie,
adding to the surreal atmosphere of the area. The frequency of these rainbows seemed unusual and was possibly linked
to the unique atmospheric conditions created by the microclimate.
Adding to the complexity of the region’s weather, Denver and the surrounding areas, including Commerce City, began
participating in cloud seedingāa program designed to influence weather patterns by dispersing substances into the air
to encourage cloud formation and precipitation. While cloud seeding is often used to mitigate drought conditions or
increase snowfall, its implementation in the Denver metropolitan area raised questions about the broader impact on local weather patterns and the potential for unintended consequences. This program, combined with the existing microclimate, contributed to the unusual and often unpredictable weather we experienced.