Durango may get its first taste of winter this week, but even if that forecast doesn’t come to pass, it’s likely to be wet and colder in town.
The southern San Juan Mountains are under a winter storm watch from Tuesday evening through Thursday morning above 9,000 feet, according to the National Weather Service.
Four to 8 inches of snow is predicted around that altitude, with a foot or more above timberline and on mountain passes.
“Definitely be prepared for winter driving,” said Julie Malingowski, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Grand Junction.
The heaviest snow is predicted to fall above 9,000 feet from early Wednesday morning through early Wednesday evening.
A significant temperature drop will take place as the storm descends. Tuesday’s high was 61 degrees, but the high is expected to be only 46 degrees Wednesday.
While it’s snowing in the mountains, it will probably be raining in town, with a 70 percent chance of precipitation through Wednesday.
The rain is likely to turn into a wet snow by Wednesday evening, with a possibility of 1 inch accumulation, Malingowski said.
However, drivers should be prepared for more snow at higher elevations. For example, U.S. Highway 160 near Hesperus is likely to receive 6 to 8 inches, she said.
The storm will likely persist into Thursday, with a 50 percent chance of precipitation, the weather service said.
“Things are going to be tampering off Thursday evening,” Malingowski said.
After Tuesday night, lows will be well below freezing, in the low to mid-20s through at least Saturday. The sun should return Friday, with a high around 47 degrees.
As El Niño sets in, these storms are expected almost weekly, with the next one predicted about the middle of next week, Malingowski said.
The weather service suggests travelers check road and weather conditions before setting out.
abutler@durangoherald.com
On the Net
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Herald Staff
This information box has been updated to reflect changes in contact information.
