Pueblo, CO – Travel over Colorado’s highest mountain passes could shut down within hours as wind-driven snow and 70 mph gusts hammer the San Juan and Sawatch ranges through Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 11 p.m. Wednesday for the Eastern Sawatch Mountains above 11,000 feet and the Eastern San Juan Mountains above 10,000 feet, including Wolf Creek Pass, Cumbres Pass and areas near Bonanza.
Snow totals between 8 and 16 inches are expected, with up to 24 inches possible across portions of the Eastern San Juan Mountains. The heaviest snowfall will fall late Tuesday night through Tuesday morning, followed by another round Wednesday. Winds gusting as high as 70 mph will create widespread blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility to near zero at times.
Mountain roads, especially U.S. Highway 160 over Wolf Creek Pass and State Highway 17 near Cumbres Pass, may become impassable. Strong winds could also down trees and cause isolated power outages in high-elevation communities.
Officials urge travelers to delay mountain trips. If travel is unavoidable, carry extra food, water and a flashlight, and check 511 for updated Colorado road conditions.
The warning remains in effect through 11 p.m. Wednesday, with additional advisories possible as snow bands redevelop.
