Grand Junction, Colorado – Heavy mountain snow and wind gusts up to 65 mph are creating near-zero visibility across parts of western Colorado and eastern Utah, with hazardous travel continuing through 5 a.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect above 7,000 feet for the San Juan River Basin near Pagosa Springs, the Eastern Uinta Mountains, the Tavaputs Plateau and the La Sal and Abajo Mountains. Snow totals between 4 and 8 inches are expected above 7,000 feet in southwest Colorado, while the Eastern Uinta Mountains could see 8 to 16 inches. The La Sal and Abajo Mountains may receive 6 to 12 inches above 8,000 feet.
Winds will gust between 40 and 65 mph, strongest across exposed ridgelines and high passes. Blowing snow may sharply reduce visibility on U.S. 160 near Wolf Creek Pass, U.S. 191 near Monticello and mountain routes near Dutch John and Manila.
Travel could become very difficult, especially on elevated roadways and passes where drifting snow accumulates quickly. Drivers should delay nonessential travel, carry winter gear and check 511 for the latest Colorado and Utah road conditions.
Snow and strong winds will gradually taper late Wednesday night into early Thursday, but slick conditions may linger beyond 5 a.m.
