If you’re anywhere near Colorado’s Eastern Sawatch Mountains, get ready for a rough night—heavy snow and strong winds are making for dangerous travel conditions that will last through Tuesday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory until 11 AM MST Tuesday, warning of up to 8 inches of snow in higher elevations, wind gusts up to 45 mph, and possible whiteout conditions. If you’re planning to drive through the mountains or do anything outdoors, you’ll want to think twice—it’s going to be slick, windy, and downright nasty out there.
What’s Happening Right Now?
A winter storm is dumping snow across the region, and strong winds are whipping that snow around, making it hard to see and even harder to drive.
Here’s what conditions look like in affected areas as of this evening:
- Leadville, CO – 12°F (-11°C), heavy snow, strong winds
- Buena Vista, CO – 15°F (-9°C), light snow, overcast
- Salida, CO – 18°F (-8°C), windy and cloudy
- Monarch Pass, CO – 8°F (-13°C), snowing hard with wind gusts over 40 mph
Temperatures are well below freezing, so the snow is sticking immediately—and with high winds blowing it around, visibility is dropping fast.
How Long Will This Last?
- Overnight (Monday-Tuesday): Snowfall intensifies, and winds create whiteout conditions, especially in open areas.
- Tuesday Morning: Snow starts to ease up by mid-morning, but icy roads, windblown snow, and freezing temperatures will keep things dangerous for a while.
Even after the snow stops falling, the wind will keep pushing it back onto roads, making it tough for plows to keep up.
How Much Snow Are We Talking About?
This storm isn’t a record-breaker, but it’s still enough to cause problems:
- High elevations (above 11,000 feet): Up to 8 inches of snow
- Lower elevations (Buena Vista, Salida, Leadville): 3 to 6 inches
- Mountain passes (Monarch Pass, Independence Pass): 6 to 10 inches with heavy winds creating snowdrifts
If you have to drive, be prepared for snow-covered roads, delays, and possible closures.
What’s the Biggest Concern?
Treacherous Roads – Snow and ice are making roads slick, and with strong winds, it’s even worse in the mountains. Expect delays and dangerous driving conditions.
Near-Zero Visibility – Blowing snow will make it nearly impossible to see at times, especially on mountain passes and open highways.
Strong Winds = More Snow Drifts – Even after the storm calms down, winds could push snow back onto roads, keeping conditions dangerous.
Avalanche Risk on the Rise – Fresh snow + strong winds = higher avalanche danger in the backcountry. If you’re thinking about hiking or skiing, you might want to wait.
Weather Alerts You Should Know About
Winter Weather Advisory – In effect until 11 AM Tuesday for the Eastern Sawatch Mountains, including Chaffee, Lake, and Saguache counties.
High Wind Warning – Wind gusts up to 45 mph will blow snow across roads and trails, making travel and outdoor activities dangerous.
Avalanche Advisory – Backcountry travelers should be extremely cautious—new snow and high winds are increasing the risk of avalanches in higher elevations.
How to Stay Safe
Avoid Driving If You Can – If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home. If you must drive, check road conditions before leaving and take it slow.
Check for Road Closures Before You Head Out – COtrip.org or dial 511 for real-time updates from the Colorado Department of Transportation.
Stay Out of the Backcountry – If you were planning a hike, ski trip, or any outdoor adventure, consider rescheduling—conditions aren’t safe right now.
Dress in Layers & Stay Warm – Wind chills will make it feel even colder, so cover exposed skin and dress for extreme cold.
Prepare for Power Outages – Strong winds + snow = possible downed power lines. Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and a backup heat source handy just in case.
