Pueblo, CO – A powerful winter storm is expected to sweep across Colorado’s high mountain ranges tonight, with the National Weather Service warning of 10 to 20 inches of wind-driven snow and dangerous travel conditions through Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, the Winter Storm Warning covers the Eastern Sawatch Mountains above 11,000 feet, as well as the Western Mosquito Range and East Lake County, including areas near Bonanza and Climax. The warning is in effect from 11 p.m. Friday through 11 p.m. Saturday.
Forecasters say the incoming storm will bring heavy snowfall paired with gusts up to 55 mph, creating whiteout conditions along high-elevation passes and exposed ridgelines. The heaviest snow is expected to fall north of Cottonwood Pass, where higher terrain will tap into deeper moisture and strong upslope flow.
NWS officials warn that travel across high country routes could become very difficult to impossible, particularly late tonight through Saturday morning when snowfall rates are expected to peak. Blowing snow and drifting could make road surfaces treacherous, and access to backcountry areas may become limited.
Residents, hikers, and backcountry travelers are urged to prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions and avoid nonessential travel in the warning area. Those who must travel should keep flashlights, food, water, and winter emergency kits in their vehicles.
Colorado’s latest road conditions can be checked by calling 511, and updates will continue as the storm progresses across the central mountains.
