This week, the National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for parts of Colorado, Utah, and Montana due to winter-like conditions that could disrupt travel. The warnings were in effect for the Uinta Mountains in Colorado, Gallatin and Madison County Mountains, Centennial Mountains, and Cooke County in Montana, and various mountain areas in Utah. The warnings were scheduled to be in place until Friday or Saturday, depending on the location, and were expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to the region, making travel difficult or impossible.
Motorists were urged to avoid travel if possible and to exercise extreme caution if travel was necessary. NWS advised leaving plenty of room between vehicles, allowing extra time to reach destinations, avoiding sudden braking or acceleration, and being cautious on hills or during turns. Additionally, it was recommended to ensure that vehicles were winterized and in good working order. The warnings also suggested carrying extra supplies such as flashlights, food, and water in vehicles in case of emergencies.
NWS science and operations officer David Church explained that wet fall storm systems were typical for high-elevation terrain near Salt Lake City during this time of year, but significant snow accumulation was expected in the region. The shift from above-normal temperatures to freezing temperatures was expected with this winter system. The warnings emphasized the importance of being prepared for winter driving conditions, especially along mountain routes, higher passes, and areas prone to snow accumulation.
Snowfall predictions varied across the three states, with up to 14 inches expected in Colorado, up to 22 inches forecasted in Utah, and up to 18 inches anticipated in Montana. Winter driving conditions were expected along all mountain routes, including higher passes along interstates. Some vehicles may require tire chains when traveling through mountain passes. In addition to the winter storm warnings, winter weather advisories were issued for several other states, including parts of Montana, Oregon, Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, and Nevada, warning of potentially hazardous conditions.
Overall, the winter storm warnings issued by the National Weather Service for parts of Colorado, Utah, and Montana highlighted the potential for heavy snow and strong winds that could disrupt travel. Motorists were advised to exercise caution, avoid travel if possible, and ensure that their vehicles were winterized and stocked with emergency supplies. The warnings emphasized the importance of preparedness for winter driving conditions, with significant snow accumulation expected in the region. Additionally, winter weather advisories were issued for various other states to alert residents of possible hazardous conditions.
