Colorado transportation officials warn that ‘potent late-season storm’ will impact the I-70 mountain corridor

Colorado transportation officials are warning drivers that a “potent late-season storm” will bring heavy snow to the mountains and impact roadways across the state.

The storm will peak Tuesday, May 5, and Wednesday, May 6, the Colorado Department of Transportation said in a news release. Up to 20 inches of snow are possible for some Western Slope mountains, according to the National Weather Service.

While daytime temperatures on Tuesday are expected to melt snow off of the pavement, the release states that heavy snowfall Tuesday night could create difficult travel conditions, including on Interstate 70. The National Weather Service has a mix of winter storm warnings, winter weather advisories and freeze watches in place across the mountains through about Wednesday night.

Travelers should prepare for the storm’s peak impacts during their Wednesday morning commute, according to the transportation department. Conditions on the I-70 mountain corridor could range from slushy to snow-covered, and the heavy bands of snow could create visibility concerns during the storm.

Colorado’s chain and traction laws remain in effect through May 31, and will likely be activated during the storm, according to the news release. The state’s passenger vehicle traction law requires that all passenger vehicles have chains, another traction device or snow tires with the proper tread depth.

Drivers should also give plows plenty of space and be prepared with extra water, blankets, batteries, clothing and other items they might need in the event of road closures in the mountains, according to transportation officials.
For the latest road conditions visit COTrip.org.