Grand Junction, CO – A new round of mountain snow is set to hit southwest Colorado this afternoon, bringing hazardous travel to several high-elevation routes and popular recreation areas. The National Weather Service says snowfall will begin building after mid-afternoon and may continue into early Monday, potentially affecting the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 3 p.m. Sunday to 8 a.m. Monday for elevations above 9,000 feet across the Northwest and Southwest San Juan Mountains. This includes Telluride, Red Mountain Pass, Silverton, Molas Pass, Coal Bank Pass, Ouray, Lake City, Rico, and Hesperus.
Forecasters expect 4 to 8 inches of snow, with locally higher totals possible on the highest peaks. While lower elevations may see lighter accumulation, the steep terrain and narrow mountain passes could experience rapidly changing road conditions.
According to the NWS, travel could become very difficult, especially overnight and early Monday. Drivers are urged to prepare for slick surfaces, reduced visibility, and slower travel times on major passes such as Red Mountain, Molas, and Lizard Head.
The advisory comes at a critical time for early-week commuters. Snowfall may linger into daybreak Monday, increasing the risk of delays for workers, school traffic, and commercial drivers navigating high country corridors.
Motorists are encouraged to slow down, increase following distance, and check road conditions through Colorado’s 511 system before heading out.
