The Colorado Department of Transportation issued the following news release Saturday night, ahead of the snowstorm that is hitting Colorado:
Icy conditions and heavy snow are expected to impact much of the state beginning late Saturday night beginning with freezing rain and transitioning to heavy snow by Sunday afternoon, making the Monday morning commute along the Front Range and the Denver Metro area a challenge. This is expected to be long-lasting storm with impacts through Monday.
Motorists are urged to avoid driving during the storm particularly on the I-70 Mountain Corridor and I-25 between Monument and Castle Rock. If you have to be out - take it slow, stay safely behind the vehicle ahead, don’t pass plows and make sure your vehicle is equipped for the weather, including the appropriate tires for snow.
If you travel on the I-25 corridor between Monument and Castle Rock, CDOT highly urges that you avoid this area come early Monday morning or delay your commute until later in the day. THERE WILL BE IMPACTS. The speed limit on this stretch will be reduced to 45 miles per hour beginning noon Sunday as the storm begins to hit.
CDOT crews have pretreated roads and will be out in force throughout the storm.
Here is a breakdown of the anticipated impacts:
I-25 SOUTH GAP PROJECT AND MONUMENT HILL
The forecast calls for freezing drizzle mixed with snow late tonight through Sunday morning, then changing mainly to snow Sunday afternoon, lasting through Monday afternoon. Five to ten inches of snow is anticipated, with the heaviest impacts on Monday morning. CDOT crews pretreated the roadway to help reduce the ice and snow from sticking to the pavement and they will be treating and plowing the interstate throughout the storm. Road conditions will be slick and emergency closures are likely depending on the severity of the conditions for the safety of motorists. The speed limit will be lowered to 45 miles per hour to slow traffic down during the storm. Avoid driving through this area if you can on Monday morning.
METRO DENVER
Freezing rain is expected overnight and tomorrow morning, which makes for slick driving conditions. The freezing rain is expected to turn to snow late Sunday through Monday morning. Commuters should plan ahead, give yourself extra time to reach your destination, slow down and don’t follow too closely. CDOT crews have pretreated major roads and will be fully deployed around the clock throughout the storm.
SOUTHEAST COLORADO
Snow will be heaviest late Sunday night into Monday morning. Icy, snow packed roads are expected with hazardous driving conditions for the Monday morning commute. The storm is expected to have impacts along the I-25 corridor including the Palmer Divide, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo, as well as south to the New Mexico Border. Southeastern Colorado, east of I-25, will see icy roadways beginning on Monday. Be prepared for winter driving and have adequate traction to meet the new laws.
NORTHEAST COLORADO
Saturday will have drizzle and light snow until Sunday afternoon when the heavier snow will begin, with snow continuing through the night and affecting the Monday morning commute.
Roadways Monday could be icy and snow packed. Winds Sunday and Monday could add to the harsh conditions. Be safe. Take extra time getting to work and make sure you have good tires.
NORTHWEST COLORADO
Heavy snow is expected along the I-70 Mountain Corridor, especially in the higher elevations. Travel may be difficult. Expect hazardous, winter driving conditions. This includes icy roads, snow packed roads and poor visibility.
SOUTHWEST COLORADO
Snowfall may impact travel along the high mountain corridors. Slow down and use caution when driving over mountain passes.
SOUTH-CENTRAL COLORADO
A winter weather advisory is in effect, with heavy snow accumulations in the high country. This will impact travel on higher mountain passes. Use caution and check on restrictions before heading out.
