Pueblo, Colorado – Wind gusts powerful enough to snap tree limbs and knock out power could sweep across southern Colorado by Tuesday morning, with mountain areas facing the most extreme impacts through Tuesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a High Wind Watch is in effect from Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening for the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Southwest winds are expected to reach 40 to 50 mph, with gusts up to 85 mph possible above 8,500 feet, including near Poncha Pass, La Veta Pass, Cuchara and Blanca Peak. Travel over exposed ridgelines and mountain passes could become dangerous, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Across lower elevations, including Pueblo, Walsenburg, Trinidad, La Junta, Lamar and Springfield, west winds of 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph are possible from Tuesday morning through Tuesday afternoon. Open stretches of U.S. Highway 50 and Interstate 25 may see sudden crosswinds capable of pushing vehicles off course.
Residents should secure outdoor items, prepare for isolated power outages and avoid unnecessary mountain travel during peak wind periods. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as wind speeds become more certain heading into Tuesday.
