Bonanza, CO – A powerful winter storm is set to hit Colorado’s central mountain peaks starting midnight Friday, bringing significant snowfall and dangerous winds through Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 12 a.m. Friday through 12 a.m. Sunday for elevations above 11,000 feet in the Western Mosquito Range and Eastern Sawatch Mountains, including areas near Bonanza and Climax. Forecasters expect 4 to 8 inches of snow, with wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph.
Travelers and backcountry enthusiasts should prepare for hazardous conditions, especially in alpine zones where visibility could drop quickly due to blowing snow. The combination of snow accumulation and high winds may lead to drifting and difficult driving across mountain passes.
Officials urge drivers to slow down and use caution, especially during overnight and early morning hours when road conditions may rapidly deteriorate. Road status updates for Colorado are available via 511.
The storm system is expected to taper off by late Saturday night, but lingering wind and slick surfaces may pose continued risks into early Sunday. Residents and visitors should monitor updates and delay high-elevation travel when possible.
