Denver, Colorado – Mountain travel across northern Colorado could become nearly impossible within hours as heavy snow and 65 mph wind gusts move into the high country Tuesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver, a Winter Storm Warning begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday for Rabbit Ears Pass and at 8 p.m. for Rocky Mountain National Park, Cameron Pass and the Medicine Bow Range. The warning remains in effect through midnight Wednesday night.
Forecasters expect 8 to 16 inches of snow above 9,000 feet, with localized totals up to 22 inches in the higher terrain of Rocky Mountain National Park. Rabbit Ears Pass could see 10 to 20 inches, with isolated amounts approaching 30 inches. Winds gusting between 55 and 65 mph will create blowing snow and visibility reduced to one-quarter mile or less, especially overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning.
Major routes including U.S. 40 over Rabbit Ears Pass, U.S. 34 near Cameron Pass and Trail Ridge Road areas could see hazardous or closed conditions. CDOT warns that chain laws or closures are likely as snowfall intensifies.
Travelers should carry emergency supplies, including food, water and flashlights, and check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting cotrip.org. Snow rates are expected to ease Wednesday afternoon, but impacts may linger through Wednesday night.
