Aspen, Colorado – Heavy mountain snow combined with strong winds is creating dangerous travel conditions across western and central Colorado, with a Winter Weather Advisory remaining in effect through Sunday morning.
Snow continues this afternoon and evening across the Elk, Gore, and Sawatch Mountains, with accumulations of 4 to 12 inches expected in the highest terrain near Aspen, Snowmass, and Crested Butte. Winds gusting up to 45 mph are producing blowing snow and rapidly changing visibility, especially along exposed ridgelines and mountain passes.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, the advisory remains active until 10 a.m. Sunday for much of the central and southwest Colorado mountains. Above 9,000 feet in the San Juan Mountains, including Red Mountain Pass, Molas Pass, and Coal Bank Pass, snowfall totals of 4 to 8 inches are expected by Sunday morning. Travel could become very difficult at times, particularly overnight.
I-70 over Vail Pass and US-550 through the San Juans are likely to experience snow-covered roads, drifting, and brief whiteout conditions. CDOT crews are working to keep major routes open, but rapidly accumulating snow and gusty winds may slow plowing efforts. Drivers should expect chain requirements or traction laws to be enacted with little notice.
Backcountry travelers and ski-area visitors should be prepared for winter conditions well beyond valley floors. Secure vehicles, pack emergency supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel overnight if possible. Power disruptions are not expected to be widespread, but blowing snow may obscure signage and lane markings.
Snow gradually tapers late Sunday morning as winds ease, though cold and unsettled winter weather continues into early next week.
