Leadville, Colorado – Travel across high mountain corridors near Leadville and the central Rockies could become nearly impossible by early Tuesday as snow and 75 mph wind gusts hammer elevations above 9,000 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 11 p.m. Monday through 11 p.m. Wednesday for Lake County, the Western Mosquito Range, La Garita Mountains and portions of the Upper Rio Grande Valley. Snow totals are expected to range from 4 to 12 inches, with the highest amounts above 11,000 feet. Wind gusts across exposed peaks and east-facing slopes could reach 75 mph, increasing the risk of blowing snow and scattered power outages.
Communities including Leadville, Creede and South Fork will see deteriorating conditions, especially along high passes near Climax, North Pass and Alpine. Blowing snow may sharply reduce visibility and create drifting across open stretches of highway.
Drivers should check Colorado 511 or cotrip.org before traveling and be prepared for chain restrictions or temporary closures. Strong winds may also down tree limbs. The advisory remains in effect through Wednesday night, with additional updates possible as the storm develops.
