The National Weather Service (NWS) in Pueblo has placed a Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 2 p.m. Wednesday through 5 a.m. Thursday. Residents of Pueblo County, as well as mountain communities in the Sawatch, Pikes Peak, Chaffee, Mosquito Range and Lake County areas, should prepare for significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions.
What to Expect
Snow accumulations are forecast to range from four to nine inches across the advisory zone, with localized totals that could reach up to eleven inches in the highest terrain. The advisory specifically calls out the Eastern Sawatch Mountains and Pikes Peak above 11,000 feet, as well as portions of western Chaffee County and the Mosquito Range between 9,000 and 11,000 feet.
When the Snow Will Fall
The snowfall is expected to begin around 2 p.m. on Wednesday and continue through the early morning hours of Thursday, tapering off by 5 a.m. MST. This timing means the evening commute on Wednesday will be the most affected, with slick roads and reduced visibility likely throughout the region.
Impact on Travel and Daily Life
Travel could become very difficult, especially on mountain passes and rural highways. Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distances, and use caution when navigating icy or snow‑covered roadways. The NWS advises checking the latest road conditions before heading out; a quick call to 511 will provide up‑to‑date information for Colorado’s highways.
Local emergency services are on standby to respond to any incidents caused by the winter weather. Residents should also consider postponing non‑essential trips until the advisory expires, particularly if they must travel on less‑maintained county roads.
Safety Tips for Residents
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news outlets, the NWS website, and the Colorado Department of Transportation for real‑time updates.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your car has adequate tire tread, a full tank of gas, and an emergency kit that includes blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.
- Protect Your Home: Keep heating systems in good working order, clear gutters of debris, and check that exterior pipes are insulated to prevent freezing.
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: If you must be outside, dress in layers, wear waterproof boots, and limit time spent in the cold.
Community Response
County officials have reminded residents that the advisory is a precautionary measure, not a mandatory order. However, they stress that the safety of families and neighbors depends on each person’s willingness to heed the warnings. Local churches and community groups are offering assistance to seniors and those without reliable transportation, ensuring they can stay warm and safe during the storm.
As the snow settles, crews will begin clearing major roadways and restoring any disrupted services. Residents are encouraged to report hazardous conditions to local authorities and to be patient as snow removal teams work through the affected areas.
Looking Ahead
While the current advisory ends early Thursday, forecasters will continue to monitor the weather pattern for any additional snowfall that could develop later in the week. A follow‑up advisory may be issued if conditions warrant further action.
For now, the priority remains clear: stay informed, travel safely, and look out for one another as Colorado’s beautiful winter season arrives.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
