Colorado Brace for Up to 11 Inches of Snow as Winter Weather Advisory Issued

Colorado is preparing for significant snowfall, with a winter weather advisory forecasting up to 11 inches in higher elevations. This advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, highlights the potential for hazardous driving conditions, especially during Wednesday evening's commute. A key change for drivers is the expanded scope of the state's traction law, which now includes all passenger vehicles, irrespective of their drivetrain. This requires drivers to ensure their vehicles are equipped with suitable tires or alternative traction devices to navigate the snowy mountain highways safely.

The advisories detail specific snow accumulations and timelines across various regions, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the traction law. This measure aims to enhance safety on roads like I-70, particularly between Dotsero and Morrison, where the law is in effect for an extended period. Violations carry substantial fines, increasing significantly if a non-compliant vehicle causes a road closure. Authorities urge all drivers to stay informed about current road conditions and comply with regulations to prevent accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow during this winter weather event.

Winter Weather Advisory: Snowfall Forecast and Impact Zones

Colorado is currently under a winter weather advisory, with forecasts indicating substantial snowfall of up to 11 inches in its mountainous areas, persisting until Thursday morning. The National Weather Service has highlighted potential hazards for drivers, particularly during Wednesday's evening commute, as roads are expected to become slick. In response, the state's traction law has been activated, now extending its requirements to all passenger vehicles, including those with two-wheel drive. This mandates that all vehicles must either have appropriate tires or be equipped with chains or other approved traction devices to ensure safety on snow-covered mountain highways.

The advisory covers specific regions, with NWS Denver issuing warnings for areas like Summit County, the Mosquito Range, and Indian Peaks, predicting 3 to 10 inches of snow, with higher localized amounts. NWS Pueblo anticipates 4 to 9 inches, potentially reaching 11 inches in the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges and Pikes Peak, warning of extremely difficult travel conditions. Meanwhile, NWS Grand Junction expects 4 to 8 inches above 10,000 feet in the Gore and Elk Mountains, including Vail Pass and Aspen, cautioning about slippery bridges and overpasses. These detailed forecasts emphasize the widespread impact and the critical need for preparedness among residents and travelers.

Colorado's Traction Law: New Regulations for All Passenger Vehicles

Colorado's traction law has undergone significant revisions, now encompassing every passenger vehicle, including two-wheel drive models, as of a new state law enacted on May 5. This expansion means that all drivers must adhere to specific tire requirements or utilize approved alternative traction devices when the law is in effect on state highways, particularly on I-70 between Dotsero and Morrison from September 1 to May 31. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) communicates activations via overhead message boards and its COtrip map, urging drivers to stay informed and compliant to avoid penalties.

To meet the traction law's requirements, tires must have a minimum tread depth of 3/16 inch and feature an all-weather rating, an M+S or M/S marking, or the mountain and snowflake symbol. Vehicles not equipped with qualifying tires must have chains or an approved alternative traction device on at least two tires. Non-compliance can result in a fine of $100 plus a $33 surcharge, escalating to $500 plus $157 if the vehicle causes a lane closure. A more stringent passenger vehicle chain law, mandating chains on all cars regardless of tire type, is a last-resort measure. Drivers are advised to consult cotrip.org or dial 511 for real-time road conditions and to ensure their vehicles meet the necessary safety standards.