Western Colorado and Eastern Utah – Light snow and gusty winds are creating difficult travel conditions across high-elevation areas of western Colorado and eastern Utah early Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect until 10 a.m. MST Sunday for multiple mountain regions, primarily above 8,000 to 9,000 feet.
In the Northwest and Southwest San Juan Mountains, including Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, Red Mountain Pass, Molas Pass, Coal Bank Pass, and Lizard Head Pass, up to 2 inches of additional snow is expected above 9,000 feet, with wind gusts up to 40 mph.
Similar conditions are forecast across the Gore, Elk, West Elk, and Sawatch Mountains, as well as the Flat Tops and Grand and Battlement Mesas, affecting travel near Vail Pass, Aspen, Snowmass, Crested Butte, Monarch Pass, McClure Pass, and Trappers Lake. Snow accumulations of up to 2 inches and gusty winds near 40 mph may lead to slick roads and reduced visibility.
Advisories are also in place above 8,000 feet for the Uncompahgre Plateau, Dallas Divide, Roan and Tavaputs Plateaus, and the La Sal and Abajo Mountains in eastern Utah, including areas near Ridgway, Glade Park, Monticello, and Spanish Valley. Wind gusts in these areas may reach 35 mph.
The National Weather Service warns that travel could be very difficult at times, particularly over mountain passes and during periods of blowing snow. Conditions are expected to gradually improve later this morning as snowfall tapers.
Motorists traveling through high-elevation routes are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and check road conditions before departing. Road updates are available by calling 511.
