If you’re planning to head into the San Juan Mountains this weekend, it’s time to think twice. The weather’s about to get wild, and it’s not the fun winter wonderland kind of wild. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect, bringing snow, ice, and strong winds that could turn your road trip into a real challenge. Here’s the scoop on what’s coming and how to stay safe.
What’s Coming Your Way:
This isn’t just a light dusting or a quick shower. The storm hitting the San Juan Mountains is serious, with heavy snow and icy conditions that will make roads slick and dangerous—especially as the weekend goes on.
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Snowfall: The mountains are expected to get 3 to 6 inches of snow, with the higher elevations potentially seeing up to 8 inches. The snow will start late Friday and keep coming down through Saturday night. So, if you’ve got plans to travel, expect some serious snow accumulation that could slow you down.
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Icy Roads: As the snow piles up, the temperatures will plummet, and roads will turn icy quickly. The combination of snow and freezing temperatures means the roads will be slick and dangerous, especially at night. If you’ve ever driven on mountain roads in snow and ice, you know how treacherous it can get. Places like U.S. 550 (Red Mountain Pass) and CO 149 will be especially tough to navigate, so use extra caution if you’re heading that way.
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Wind Gusts: As if snow and ice weren’t enough, we’ll also be dealing with wind gusts up to 40 mph. These strong winds will blow snow across the roads, reducing visibility and making driving even harder. It’s going to be one of those times where you can’t see more than a few feet in front of you, so be ready for sudden whiteouts.
How This Will Impact Your Travel Plans:
If you’re heading through the San Juans this weekend, you’re going to face some tough conditions. Here’s what you need to know about how the storm will affect your travel:
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Mountain Roads and Highways: Highways like U.S. 550 and CO 149 are already tricky in good weather, but this storm will make them even more dangerous. The snow will coat the roads quickly, and once the ice sets in, you’re looking at some serious driving hazards. If you’re not used to driving in these conditions, it’s probably best to rethink your plans or delay your trip. No one wants to get stuck on a mountain pass in a snowstorm.
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Visibility Issues: Between the falling snow and the strong winds, visibility is going to be awful. Snow will blow across the roads, making it hard to see where you’re going—especially if you’re driving through mountain passes or higher elevations. On top of that, with the wind gusting, it’ll be hard to see anything more than a few feet in front of you. If you’re behind the wheel, stay alert and drive slow.
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Nighttime Travel: As the day turns to night, conditions will only get worse. Snow will keep coming down, and roads will get slicker and icier. With darkness falling, you’ll have to be extra careful since it’ll be hard to see the road or other vehicles. If you can, try to avoid driving after sunset—it’s a lot harder to spot trouble on the roads in the dark.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe:
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Stay Up-to-Date: Winter weather in the mountains can change fast, and it’s important to keep tabs on the latest weather reports and road conditions. Check your weather app or the local news for updates on the storm and any possible road closures. It’s also a good idea to follow the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) on social media for real-time updates on road conditions.
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Prepare Your Vehicle: If you absolutely have to travel, make sure your car is ready for winter conditions. Snow chains, good tires, and an emergency kit with blankets, water, food, and a flashlight are all essentials. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere without the basics. Also, make sure your phone is charged and you have a way to stay in touch in case of an emergency.
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If You Don’t Have to Go, Don’t: Seriously, if you can avoid driving through the San Juan Mountains this weekend, it’s best to stay home. The storm is expected to bring hazardous conditions, and if you don’t have to travel, there’s no reason to risk it. Staying put might just be the smartest and safest decision.
Extra Tips for Staying Safe:
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Slow Down and Stay Alert: If you have to drive, take it slow. Don’t try to speed through the storm—it’s better to take your time than to risk losing control on icy roads. Give yourself plenty of space between you and the car in front of you, and be prepared to stop or slow down if conditions change.
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Turn on Your Headlights: Even during the day, snow and blowing snow can make it hard to see the road. Keep your headlights on so other drivers can see you. It’s also a good idea to keep your windshield wipers on, especially if you’re driving in heavy snow.
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Look Out for Black Ice: One of the sneakiest hazards in winter weather is black ice—it’s invisible to drivers and can cause you to lose control without warning. Slow down and be extra cautious, especially on bridges or in shaded areas where ice is more likely to form.
