Colorado — The calm before the storm settles over the San Juan Mountains this morning, but by early Sunday, the first major pulse of Thanksgiving week winter weather will begin to blanket Colorado’s high country. The National Weather Service in Grand Junction has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the northwest and southwest San Juan Mountains, in effect from 3 a.m. Sunday through midnight Sunday night.
Forecasters expect 2 to 8 inches of snow, with the heaviest accumulations above 10,000 feet. Mountain towns such as Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, and Rico are likely to see several inches of fresh snow, while Lizard Head Pass, Molas Pass, and Red Mountain Pass could experience treacherous conditions and reduced visibility. Drivers should slow down, use extreme caution, and check road conditions by dialing 511 before traveling.
This storm will be short-lived but impactful, signaling the arrival of a colder pattern setting up across the western U.S. Early signs suggest additional snow and subfreezing temperatures could develop midweek as a major cold front sweeps east toward the Plains and Midwest — potentially disrupting Thanksgiving travel across multiple states.
For now, travelers through Colorado’s high country should avoid unnecessary trips during the day Sunday, especially near the passes, as snow and blowing wind will make conditions unpredictable.
