Pueblo, CO – The National Weather Service in Pueblo is warning travelers to expect hazardous winter driving conditions today across Colorado’s high terrain as a strong winter storm continues to dump snow on the Continental Divide and Central Mountains.
Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect through 11 p.m. Saturday for areas including Leadville, Buena Vista, and Salida, where wind-driven snow and reduced visibility are expected to make travel treacherous.
Forecasters report that heavy snow bands will persist through the evening, with snowfall totals ranging from 6 to 12 inches in the higher elevations and up to 2 feet possible in the most persistent areas near Leadville and the northern Sawatch Range.
The NWS urges drivers to slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and allow additional travel time, noting that 70% of snow-related injuries occur in automobiles. Strong winds could further reduce visibility in mountain passes such as U.S. Highway 24 and State Highway 50.
“Snow will continue through much of today before tapering off tonight,” meteorologists said. “Travel across the central mountains will remain slick and snow-covered, especially above 9,000 feet.”
For updated travel conditions, visit www.cotrip.org before heading into the mountains.
