Denver, Colorado – Drivers crossing high mountain passes have hours to adjust plans as wind gusts up to 80 mph threaten travel and power lines across the northern Colorado high country through 6 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver, a High Wind Warning remains in effect for elevations above 6,000 feet across the Northern Front Range Foothills and Front Range Mountains. West winds of 35 to 50 mph are producing gusts as high as 80 mph from Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks to Berthoud Pass, Breckenridge and the Mosquito Range.
The strongest impacts are occurring along exposed stretches of U.S. 36 near Estes Park, U.S. 34 through the Big Thompson Canyon, and Interstate 70 near the Eisenhower Tunnel. High-profile vehicles face the greatest risk of blowovers, especially on east-west oriented roads.
In addition to travel hazards, the dry and gusty pattern increases the risk of rapid fire spread if a spark develops. Isolated power outages are also possible in foothill communities including Nederland, Red Feather Lakes and areas near Cameron Pass.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture and delay travel across high passes until winds ease this evening. The warning expires at 6 p.m., though breezy conditions may linger into tonight.
