Snow accumulations expected along high mountain passes
Southwest Colorado Department of Transportation crews are preparing for winter weather expected to hit the region today and continuing through the weekend. Travelers are advised to be prepared for treacherous road conditions, especially at higher elevations along all Southwest Colorado mountain passes including US 160 Wolf Creek, US 550 Red Mountain/Molas/CoalBank, CO 145 Lizard Head and CO 149 Slumgullion. South-central mountain passes like US 50 Monarch, US 160 La Veta and CO 114 Cochetopa will see impacts as well.
“Our maintenance crews have been busy preparing their equipment for the first taste of the winter season,” said Regional Transportation Director Julie Constan. The preparations include operational and safety checks, along with material acquisition and preparedness training.
Constan added, “Today, personnel will monitor and address all changes in weather forecasts along with localized conditions on a 24/7 basis. Our maintenance staff is well prepared to address quickly changing weather and road conditions in Southwest Colorado to keep the traveling public safe wherever they may travel.”
Motorists are reminded that during any winter weather event, it is crucial that users of the highways help CDOT maintain safety for both employees and the public by keeping a safe distance behind plows, never passing a plow and slowing down in response to the weather event.
A Winter Storm Watch and Hazardous Weather Outlook have been posted by the National Weather Service. Forecasters for both the NWS and CDOT say that rain showers will be prevalent in valley areas, while the southwest Colorado mountains will see their first significant snowfall of the season, mainly above 9,000 feet. The San Juan Mountains are particularly favored for heavy snow.
Be prepared!
Travelers are urged to “know before you go!” Check weather and travel resources before hitting the road. Visit COtrip.org for the latest information about potential delays and road closures due to severe weather.