The National Weather Service has issued a series of urgent winter storm warnings across five states today as a severe system brings heavy snow, high winds, and dangerous wind chills to the roadways. Travelers in Colorado, Alaska, Wyoming, New York, and Utah should exercise extreme caution or delay travel as conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly throughout Thursday.
According to the NWS, the system is delivering a combination of heavy accumulation and blowing snow that could create whiteout conditions and make mountain passes impassable.
Colorado drivers facing difficult mountain commutes
The Colorado high country is seeing significant accumulation that will complicate travel along the I-70 corridor and secondary routes. Summit County, the Mosquito Range, and Rabbit Ears Pass are forecast to receive an additional 3 to 8 inches of snow by mid-morning. The Park Range could see even higher amounts.
The real danger for drivers, however, comes from the wind. Gusts of 35 mph are whipping snow across the northern Front Range and passes like the Gore and Sawatch, significantly reducing visibility. The NWS has explicitly warned that blowing snow could make travel difficult over mountain passes. If you must drive through these areas, ensure your vehicle is equipped with proper winter tires and emergency supplies.
Dangerous wind chills in Alaska
In Alaska, the hazards extend beyond just traction. While the Haines Highway is expected to receive another 8 inches of snow, affecting travel along the Skagway and Klondike routes, temperatures in the northern regions are life-threatening. The Arctic Coast and Brooks Range Passes are seeing wind chills plunge as low as minus 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
At these temperatures, mechanical issues can quickly become survival situations. Drivers in these remote areas should be aware that frostbite can occur on exposed skin within five minutes.
Wyoming and Utah see heavy accumulation
Wyoming is currently reporting up to 10 inches of fresh snow across the Sierra Madre and Snowy Range. The NWS has issued warnings that outdoor recreation and travel could become life-threatening for those unprepared for the severe winter conditions. Disorientation is a major risk in these whiteout conditions.
In Utah, the totals are even higher. The upper Cottonwoods and high Uinta Mountains are forecast to see up to 15 inches of snow. Areas near Brian Head and the Tushar Range are expected to receive a foot of snow by early Thursday. Traction laws will likely be in effect, and travelers should expect delays on all mountain routes.
New York lake effect impacts visibility
While snowfall totals are lower in New York than in the West, the impact on visibility is still significant. The eastern Lake Ontario region is seeing up to 4 inches of snow, resulting in snow-covered roads and hazardous driving conditions. Commuters in Wayne, Cayuga, and Cortland counties should anticipate slick surfaces and limited sightlines through the afternoon.
We recommend checking local DOT maps and 511 services before heading out in any of the affected regions.
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