The National Weather Service in Grand Junction has issued a winter storm watch to take effect Wednesday afternoon and last through midday Friday.
The NWS says a series of storms hold the potential of bringing heavy snow to western Colorado.
The first storm is expected to hit late Wednesday, followed by a brief break. Then, a stronger storm with subtropical moisture is predicted to bring the heaviest amount of snowfall.
In Montezuma County, snow is possible after noon Wednesday, continuing into the night.
On Thursday, snow is possible before noon. Moisture is expected to turn to rain as temperatures reach a high near 42 degrees Thursday. The chance of a rain/snow mix continues through Friday night.
“There is still considerable uncertainty in exact snow amounts, snow levels and precipitation types with this second storm,” the NWS said in its alert. “Higher elevation snow could exceed 1 to 2 feet under this prolonged period of very moist air lifting over the area mountains.”
Towns in Southwest Colorado listed in the winter storm watch include Silverton, Hesperus, Rico, Telluride, Ouray and Lake City.
The NWS says travel could be very difficult at times, with reduced visibility and drifting snow. Wind gusts could reach as high as 50 mph. The NWS warned the high winds may have the power to knock down trees or power lines.
According to the NWS, the chance for snow in the high country of the San Juan Mountains remains through Friday night into Saturday.
The storm is expected to leave the region by on Saturday.
Travel information
The Colorado Department of Transportation reminds motorists to check for updated weather information:
Visit
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Call 511 to listen to recorded information about road conditions, projected trip travel times and trucker information.
Receive free email/text alerts at
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Follow @coloradodot on Twitter for traveler information and other news.
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Visit
www.codot.gov/travel/winter-driving
to get information about road conditions, what to keep in a vehicle during the winter, how to safely pass a snowplow, commercial-vehicle requirements, seasonal closures, snow removal and avalanche control.
Herald Staff
