Colorado’s high country is getting pounded by early-season snow, with Winter Storm Warnings and Advisories in full force Thursday. Travelers face dangerous conditions on major passes, while Western Slope valleys could see sporadic rain into Friday.
The heaviest snow is targeting northern and central mountains, with up to 20 inches possible in isolated spots. Rabbit Ears Pass, Vail Pass, and other key routes are already seeing major impacts.
Winter Storm Warning Hits Hardest in Northern Mountains
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning until noon Thursday for the Park Range and Elkhead Mountains, including Rabbit Ears Pass on Highway 40.
Forecasters say 6-15 inches of snow will fall across most of the area, with localized totals reaching 20 inches. Strong winds will create near-zero visibility at times.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible,” the NWS warned Thursday morning. Colorado State Patrol reported multiple spin-outs and stuck semis on Highway 40 west of Steamboat Springs before dawn.
Winter Weather Advisory Covers Wide Swath of Central Mountains
A broader Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until noon for:
- Grand Mesa and Battlement Mesa
- Elk Mountains
- Gore Mountains
- Flat Tops
- Vail Pass on I-70
Snow totals of 6-10 inches are expected in these zones. CDOT crews began overnight operations on Vail Pass, but chain laws are already in effect for commercial vehicles.
I-70 between Eagle and Copper Mountain saw periods of slow traffic Thursday morning as plows worked to keep lanes clear.
Valleys Stay Mostly Dry But Rain Chances Rise Friday
While mountains bear the brunt, Western Slope valleys will stay mostly dry Thursday afternoon.
Grand Junction, Montrose, Delta, and Cortez should see partial clearing by midday with highs in the mid-to-upper 50s.
The next surge arrives Thursday night into Friday. A plume of moisture pushing north from the San Juans will spread light rain across southwest Colorado, with scattered showers possible as far north as Grand Junction by Friday morning.
Meteorologist Stephen Bowers with KJCT says the Four Corners region has the best chance for measurable rain, but “we’re all fair game for at least a few drops.”
Thursday Temperature Forecast Across Western Colorado
| Location | Morning Low | Afternoon High |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Junction | 38° | 57° |
| Montrose | 35° | 56° |
| Delta | 35° | 59° |
| Cortez | 32° | 57° |
| Moab, Utah | 41° | 59° |
Travel Impacts and Safety Reminders
CDOT urges drivers to delay mountain travel if possible Thursday morning. Current conditions show:
- I-70 Vail Pass: Chain law commercial vehicles, traction law passenger vehicles
- Highway 40 Rabbit Ears Pass: Multiple crashes reported, very slow travel
- Highway 550 Coal Bank/Molas/Red Mountain Passes: Snow packed and icy
Ski areas are celebrating the early dump. Wolf Creek Ski Area announced plans to open this weekend, while Loveland and Arapahoe Basin continue snowmaking and natural snow preservation for their race to open.
For residents and visitors in the high country, this storm marks the true arrival of winter. Stock up on supplies, check tire tread and tread depth, and give yourself extra time if you must travel.
The snow will taper through Thursday afternoon, but another round moves in Friday focused on the southern mountains. While valleys escape the worst, the message is clear: winter has arrived early and with force in Colorado’s high country.
What do you think of this early season snow? Are you excited for ski season or dreading the drive? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
