A winter weather advisory is in effect for the high country of Southwest Colorado, as well as most of the central and northern parts of the state, which could cause issues for holiday travelers.
The National Weather Service in Grand Junction said the advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. Thursday until noon Friday.
During that time, snow accumulations are expected to range from 4 to 8 inches, with some areas receiving even more. Also, wind gusts are expected to be as high as 45 mph.
The National Weather Service says the strongest period for snow accumulation is late Thursday afternoon through Thursday evening, “impacting holiday evening commute.”
Areas under the advisory include parts of southwest, northwest and west central Colorado. This includes Coal Bank, Molas and Red Mountain passes, as well as Rabbit Ears, Vail and McClure passes.
Towns listed in the advisory include Hesperus, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, Rico and Lake City, among others in the state.
The National Weather Service says to plan for slippery road conditions, as well as patchy, blowing snow, which could significantly reduce visibility. Drivers are asked to use caution and check for the latest road conditions by calling 5-1-1.
In Durango, the National Weather Service predicts a chance of snow showers Thursday morning, turning to a chance of rain showers mixed with snow and possible thunderstorms, with daytime highs around 35 to 45 degrees. The chance of precipitation is about 50 percent with snow accumulation of about 1 inch.
A chance of mixed rain showers and freezing rain continues into Thursday evening in town, which continues into late Thursday night. Lows are expected to reach 15 to 25 degrees. No snow is expected to accumulate overnight.
Friday returns to sunny skies. On Saturday, however, a chance of another storm system moving into the region returns.
jromeo@durangoherald.com
