The National Weather Service is predicting the first major winter storm of the season this weekend and the Colorado Department of Transportation is urging you to plan your travel with winter in mind. 

Light to moderate snow is expected to develop across the Continental Divide, especially the central mountains. Well below seasonal temperatures are expected this weekend, as some of the coldest air this Fall season filters into the area.

Precipitation is also expected to increase, with moderate snow along the mountains, and light snow and rain/snow showers across the valleys. The heaviest snow will be along the mountains, with light precipitation expected elsewhere.

Wintry precipitation can still cause hazardous travel conditions and extra care should be taken while traveling, particularly Saturday evening through Sunday.

Travelers in the high country should have winter tires installed or be ready to install traction devices on personal vehicles or chains on trucks. A temporary safety closure of Colorado Highway 82 Independence Pass is in effect due to the winter storm. Crews will reevaluate Independence Pass conditions once the storm passes.