Colorado’s First Big Winter Storm Arrives In Time For Thanksgiving

Grand Junction's Christmas Tree is lit and the holiday season is officially underway. As Thanksgiving approaches, Coloradans look forward to gathering with friends and family on one side of the Rockies or the other. Sounds nice doesn't it? Cue the winter storm.

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Just as countless residents of the Centennial State make plans for Thanksgiving, Colorado's first big winter storm of the season is sweeping into the state. The storm has caused multiple winter storm warnings and concerns for travelers who had plans to cross the mountains this week. Check COTrip road conditions here.

Winter Storm Warnings for Colorado

The National Weather Service Office in Grand Junction says motorists should be prepared for snow and wintry conditions along I-70 ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. Prolonged moderate to heavy snowfall and difficult driving conditions should be expected by anyone traveling portions of I-70 through Vail, or 550 through Silverton.

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre Plateau, and Dallas Divide until Midnight Wednesday. 12 to 24 inches of snow could impact this area with winds at 35mph at times.

Snow Totals for Grand Mesa

Rain, freezing rain, and light snow have already begun falling on the Grand Mesa, with two feet or more possible before the Thanksgiving holiday arrives. Some forecasts have the Grand Mesa receiving 30 inches of snow or more by Wednesday afternoon. Keep in mind that Powderhorn Mountain is already open for the season if you need something to do this weekend.

Be careful traveling to the Thanksgiving feasts at Grand Mesa Lodge.

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Blowing and Drifting Snow

If you are going to travel I-70 between Denver and Salt Lake City this week, your Thanksgiving could look a lot like this photo. Travel conditions around the state could be difficult at times Tuesday and Wednesday including the following locations:

• La Sal and Abajo Mountains in Eastern Utah: 10 to 24 inches of snow
• Grand Mesa/Elk/West Elk Mountains: 24 to 26 inches of snow
• Roan and Tavaputs Plateau: 10 to 20 inches of snow
• San Juan Mountains: 24 to 36 inches of snow
• Elkhead and Park Mountains/Flat Tops: 24 to 36 inches of snow
• Northern Sangre de Christo Mountains: 12 to 26 inches of snow, winds at 55 mph
• Western Mosquito Range: 18 to 28 inches