Denver, CO – The National Weather Service in Denver has upgraded parts of the northern Colorado mountains to a Winter Storm Warning, with heavy snow and strong winds expected from late Friday night through Saturday night.
The warning covers Rocky Mountain National Park, the Medicine Bow Range, Summit County, the Indian Peaks, and nearby high-elevation areas above 9,000 feet. Snowfall totals are forecast to range between 7 and 14 inches, with localized amounts potentially exceeding two feet along higher ridges and passes.
Rabbit Ears Pass and surrounding terrain remain under a Winter Weather Advisory through Friday evening, before conditions worsen as a stronger storm system moves in Friday night. By Saturday, winds could gust up to 55 mph, creating whiteout conditions and drifting snow across mountain roads including Berthoud, Cameron, and Kenosha Passes.
The NWS Denver office warns that travel could become very difficult to impossible, with road closures likely during peak snow and wind. Drivers are urged to avoid mountain travel if possible and to carry emergency supplies such as flashlights, food, and water if venturing out.
Snow and blowing snow will gradually diminish late Saturday night into Sunday morning, but bitter cold will follow behind the system.
