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Chain laws in effect for Southwest Colorado mountain passes

National Weather Service issues winter weather advisory until Tuesday night

Chain and traction laws were in effect Monday for Coal Bank, Molas and Red Mountain passes for a snowstorm hitting the high country of Southwest Colorado.

According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, chain or alternative traction devices are required for all commercial vehicles, including buses and vans with a capacity for 16 or more people.

Passenger vehicles are required to have snow or mud/snow tires, use chains or alternative traction devices or have a four-wheel drive/all-wheel drive vehicle.

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory until 6 p.m. Tuesday for towns including Silverton, Hesperus, Rico, Ouray, Telluride and Lake City.

During this time, up to 8 inches is expected to fall. Locally higher amounts may accumulate above timberline. Wind gusts could reach as high as 60 mph in elevations above 10,000 feet.

“Travel will be very difficult at times with patchy blowing snow significantly reducing visibility, especially in open areas,” the NWS said. “Expect all mountain passes to be affected with occasional whiteout conditions due to the combination of gusty winds and snowfall.”

The latest road conditions can be found by calling 511, the NWS said.

Snow started falling in the high country Monday morning with the arrival of a strong cold front. For the remainder of the week, snow will continue mainly in the mountains.

In Durango, snow has yet to accumulate. The NWS said snow should start falling around 3 p.m., with accumulations of less than 1 inch possible. A slight chance of snow continues until Tuesday night.



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