Yes, Southwest Colorado is in an exceptional drought. Yes, the entire corner of the state has fire restrictions in place. And yes, there’s an approaching spring storm that could dump a foot of snow in the high country of the San Juan Mountains.
It’s springtime in Colorado, after all.
According to the National Weather Service, a winter weather advisory is in effect from 9 p.m. Tuesday to 12:01 a.m. Thursday for elevations above 9,000 feet. Towns include Rico, Silverton and Telluride.
Travel conditions over mountain passes are expected to be affected, the Weather Service said. Total snow accumulations could range from 5 to 10 inches, with localized amounts up to 12 inches.
The chance for snow starts between 11 p.m. Tuesday and 5 a.m. Wednesday. Lows will be around 26 degrees with wind gusts up to 20 mph in Silverton.
On Wednesday, there’s a chance for snow and some thunder. The daytime high on Wednesday in Silverton will be around 36 degrees, and overnight lows are expected to be around 20 degrees.
The chance for snow lingers on Thursday, with a slight chance for rain and snow showers Friday afternoon. Clear skies and warm temperatures return for the weekend, according to the Weather Service.
In Durango, precipitation is expected to remain as rain. From Tuesday night until Thursday night, there will be a lingering chance of rain showers and thunderstorms, with daytime temperatures in the 50s.
The weekend is expected to be clear and warm, with temperatures in the upper 60s or low 70s in Durango.
jromeo@durangoherald.com
