The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced that the most severe effects of the season’s first widespread winter storm have passed. However, drivers should expect slushy roads to freeze and create icy conditions during the evening commute and overnight. CDOT is urging motorists to exercise caution, drive at reduced speeds, and maintain extra distance between vehicles.
To keep up with changing road conditions, drivers are encouraged to check COtrip.org or use the COtrip Planner app.
CDOT crews began clearing roads before the storm started and will continue working until highways and interstates are dry. Certain mountain areas, including Monarch, Cochetopa, and Wolf Creek Passes in southwest Colorado, could see snowfall rates above two inches per hour later in the afternoon and into early evening. Full pavement recovery in these areas is not expected until Thursday.
The department also explained that safety closures may be used during severe weather as a precautionary measure. “A safety closure is a precaution taken during inclement weather to reduce the probability of traffic incidents, increased congestion or other safety-related factors. During a safety closure, traffic may be stopped on the interstate, turned around or directed to an exit. Safety closures help decrease delay times, and, above all, keep travelers safe,” according to CDOT.
