Colorado — Winter storm warnings and advisories have been issued for much of Colorado, certain to impact highway conditions for motorists across the state. Colorado Department of Transportation officials are urging travelers to be prepared this evening and tomorrow morning for heavy localized snow and strong gusty winds. Crews are working around-the-clock snow shifts and will be keeping roads as clear and safe as possible throughout this storm, but heavy snowfall rates and blowing snow will make travel hazardous.
Metro Denver – Overnight snow will make the Monday morning commute very challenging. Motorists should give themselves extra time or consider a delayed start if possible.
Motorists should be prepared for the chance of closures and pack extra blankets, clothing, food, water and entertainment. CDOT maintenance crews will be working diligently to clear the roadways of snow and ice until the roads are clear.
Avalanche dangers can be expected on many of the mountain passes requiring safety closures for winter maintenance operations, including Loveland Pass, Berthoud Pass, and West Loop Road along the I-70 mountain corridor. Other mountain passes that could see potential safety closures for critical work include CO 65 Grand Mesa, US 50 Monarch Pass and US 550 mountain corridor.
Winter Travel Tips for Motorists
- Avoid or limit driving during the brunt of the storm on Sunday night into Monday.
- Work from home if you can.
- If you plan to travel, know before you go by checking out the latest weather conditions and visiting COtrip.org for road conditions (see info sources below).
- Make sure your vehicle is winter ready with the appropriate tires for the weather and have a snow emergency kit.
- Once you are out on the road, take it slow, no sudden stops and leave plenty of following distance.
- Give plows space! Stay back three to four car lengths from snow plows.
Know Before You Go
Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts, anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions before hitting the road. CDOT resources include:
- Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
- Download the free COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
- Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
- See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
- Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
- Chain and traction law information: www.codot.gov/admin/travel/winter-driving/tractionlaw
- Check avalanche conditions at CAIC: www.avalanche.state.co.us