Denver, CO – Hazardous winter weather is expected across Colorado’s high country west and north of Denver on Wednesday, as snow and extremely strong winds combine to create dangerous travel conditions through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday for areas above 9,000 feet in west Jackson and west Grand counties, as well as parts of Larimer, Boulder, and Grand counties. Impacted locations include Rabbit Ears Pass, Cameron Pass, Rocky Mountain National Park, the Medicine Bow Range, and the Rabbit Ears Range.
Forecasters say snowfall totals between 4 and 10 inches are expected during the advisory period, with the highest amounts favoring wind-prone mountain passes and ridgelines. Winds are forecast to be the primary concern, with gusts potentially reaching up to 75 mph, creating widespread blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
The combination of falling and blowing snow could lead to near-whiteout conditions at times, making travel very difficult or dangerous, particularly for high-profile vehicles. Roads, bridges, and exposed stretches of highway may quickly become slick and hazardous as snow accumulates.
The National Weather Service warns that travel through mountain passes during the advisory window should be avoided if possible. Those who must travel are urged to slow down, allow extra time, and carry winter emergency supplies. Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Wednesday night as winds begin to ease.
Motorists can check the latest road conditions and potential closures by calling Colorado’s 511 system or visiting cotrip.org before heading into the high country.
