Safety closures likely along I-70 and US 40 overnight Saturday and into Sunday

Travel Advisory

March 2, 2024 - Statewide - Forecasted snow and high winds will result in poor visibility creating unsafe conditions for travel

Statewide - Heavy mountain snow and strong winds are expected to produce difficult travel in the northern mountains Saturday evening through Monday morning. Snowfall amounts of 8 to 15 inches are possible along with significant blowing snow with wind gusts of 50 to 70 miles per hour. Strong winds along with the projected snowfall will create whiteout conditions and zero visibility resulting in the likelihood of safety closures for Interstate 70 and US Highway 40 overnight through Sunday. The closure of US 40, if necessary, will enable crews to safely conduct winter maintenance operations on Berthoud Pass .

Motorists should be prepared for slick conditions through the mountains and should ensure their vehicles are prepared for winter weather conditions, including making sure their tires will pass Traction Law requirements. Visibility may be greatly reduced due to blowing snow. Travelers are strongly encouraged to drive for the conditions including reducing speed and allowing for ample space between their car and the one ahead of them.

Motorists are urged to download the free COtrip Planner app to get the latest updates on road conditions and closures. Motorists should be prepared for the chance of closures and pack extra blankets, clothing, food, water and entertainment. CDOT maintenance crews will be working diligently to clear the roadways of snow and ice until the roads are clear. Motorists are urged to have patience around our plow operators and never pass plows on the right.

National Weather Service Expected Snowfall Accumulation map for 030224 to 030424
National Weather Service Expected Snowfall Accumulation map for March 2 to March 4

National Weather Service Maximum Wind Gusts map for March 2 thru March 4
National Weather Service Maximum Wind Gusts map for March 2 thru March 4

Winter Travel Tips for Motorists

  • Avoid or limit driving during the brunt of the storm. Many areas of the state will experience pavement impacts and blowing snow due to strong winds.
  • Work from home if you can.
  • If you plan to travel, know before you go by checking out the latest weather conditions and visiting COtrip.org for road conditions (see info sources below).
  • Make sure your vehicle is winter ready with the appropriate tires for the weather and have a snow emergency kit.
  • Once you are out on the road, take it slow, no sudden stops and leave plenty of following distance.
  • Give plows space! Stay back three to four car lengths from snow plows.

Safety Closures

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.

Chain & Traction Laws

When weather conditions warrant, CDOT will activate the Traction Law. If weather conditions deteriorate, CDOT will activate Chain Laws for passenger and commercial vehicles. Motorists will be alerted to an active Traction or Chain Law by highway signage, COtrip.org and traffic/roadway condition alerts. For more information on the Traction Law and Passenger Vehicle Chain Law requirements, visit codot.gov/travel/winter-driving/tractionlaw. For more information on the Commercial Vehicle Chain Law requirements, visit codot.gov/travel/colorado-chain-law. To learn more and view helpful tips for winter driving, visit winter.codot.gov.

COtrip.org & COtrip Planner App

If motorists must head out during this winter storm, they are urged to visit COtrip.org and download the COtrip Planner app ahead of time. Motorists are now able to sign up for travel alerts through COtrip.org to see if there are any highway closures or impacts along their favorite routes. The COtrip Planner app also offers a “Trip Planner” feature that allows motorists to map out their routes and receive updates about road closures or incidents along the way. Motorists can turn on the “Hands-Free, Eyes Free” feature to receive these alerts via voice notifications and avoid routes with impacts.

The free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include: