URGENT UPDATE: A powerful winter storm is set to impact travel across Western Colorado starting Tuesday, October 17, 2023. With forecasts showing 10 to 18 inches of snow in mountain areas and wind gusts soaring as high as 70 mph, officials are warning of dangerous travel conditions that could disrupt routes between the Western Slope and the Front Range, as well as access to Metro Salt Lake City.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning effective from 11 PM Monday until 5 AM Thursday for key mountain regions including the Grand Mesa, San Juan Mountains, and Elk Mountains. This warning indicates that winter weather could create hazardous conditions, making travel through the mountains potentially difficult to impossible.
According to forecasts, snow will begin overnight, with a significant wave expected to hit between midnight and 6 AM Tuesday. Additional precipitation will occur throughout the day, with scattered snow developing in the High Country by Tuesday evening. Conditions are expected to worsen as new storms arrive on Wednesday, bringing more snow and complicating travel plans for many.
Residents in affected areas should prepare for limited visibility, with conditions deteriorating due to blowing snow and strong winds. Roads such as Vail Pass, Monarch Pass, and Red Mountain Pass could see severe disruptions, making travel treacherous.
Additionally, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the Roan and Tavaputs Plateaus, predicting 4 to 10 inches of snow and wind gusts up to 60 mph. Meanwhile, a Wind Advisory has been issued for much of Southwest and Northwest Colorado from 5 AM to 5 PM Tuesday, where gusts could reach up to 50 mph, impacting areas such as Durango and Cortez.
Travelers are urged to stay updated on weather conditions and consider delaying non-essential travel during this time. The storm system is expected to linger, with more snow anticipated on Thursday and Friday, before a return of sunshine for the weekend.
In light of these conditions, authorities are advising everyone in affected regions to exercise caution and remain informed on the latest weather updates. Check local forecasts and prepare for potential delays if travel is necessary.
Stay tuned as we provide further updates on this developing situation.
