Colorado — Wet roads turn slushy fast as cold air wraps into the Front Range, setting up a sharp rain-to-snow transition by midday.
According to the National Weather Service, a strong system brings rain early before changing to accumulating snow across higher elevations near Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Cañon City, and Woodland Park. Totals reach 5 to 16 inches in the mountains, with lighter accumulation in lower elevations.
This is part of a broader Rockies storm system pulling in moisture and colder air, creating steep elevation differences in snowfall and road conditions.
The most impactful window develops from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., when temperatures hover in the 30s and precipitation intensifies. Roads along I-25, Highway 50, and higher terrain routes like U.S. 24 can turn slushy quickly, especially on bridges and shaded inclines.
Micro-locations like Monument Hill and west-side foothill roads near Rampart Range will see faster accumulation, while downtown Colorado Springs may stay mostly wet with brief bursts of slush.
Heavy, wet snow adds weight to tree branches, increasing the risk of isolated power outages. Visibility may drop during heavier bursts, slowing afternoon commutes.
By evening, precipitation begins to taper, but lingering moisture and falling temperatures raise concern for slick refreeze spots overnight into early morning travel.
Plan for slower travel this afternoon, especially if crossing elevation changes, and keep headlights on during reduced visibility.
Looking ahead, drier and warmer conditions return through the weekend, with highs climbing into the 60s and low 70s. Another system may bring renewed rain chances early next week.
Slushy roads and reduced visibility peak mid-afternoon, so delay travel if possible or allow extra time on I-25 and elevated routes.
