Overnight snow will make for a challenging Monday morning commute in the Denver region and across much of the state

Winter Travel Alert

March 24, 2024 - Statewide - Sunday night blizzard warning issued for I-25 Palmer Divide

Colorado — Winter storm warnings and advisories have been issued for much of Colorado, certain to impact highway conditions for motorists across the state. Colorado Department of Transportation officials are urging travelers to be prepared this evening and tomorrow morning for heavy localized snow and strong gusty winds. Crews are working around-the-clock snow shifts and will be keeping roads as clear and safe as possible throughout this storm, but heavy snowfall rates and blowing snow will make travel hazardous.

Tonight / Sunday Night March 24, 2024

  • I-70 Mountain Corridor - Travelers along the mountain corridor are advised that increased snowfall will create difficult winter driving conditions. Expect slow-going traffic and delays. Commercial vehicle drivers are urged to follow chain and traction laws.
  • I-25 Palmer Divide - Blizzard conditions are expected along the Palmer Divide and eastward into the plains. Driving conditions will become treacherous with strong winds and low visibility. Avoid travel.
  • Eastern Plains - While snow accumulations may be minimal on the plains, strong winds will create low to zero visibility and ground blizzard effects. Eastbound commercial and passenger vehicle travel along I-70 and I-76 out of Denver is strongly discouraged.
  • Mountains - Mountain ranges across the state will continue to receive snow overnight. High mountain passes will become snowpacked, slick and icy.

Tomorrow / Monday Morning

  • Metro Denver - Overnight snow will make the Monday morning commute very challenging. Motorists should give themselves extra time or consider a delayed start if possible.
National Weather Service map of expected snowfall accumulations for Sunday, March 24 through Tuesday, March 26
National Weather Service map of expected snowfall accumulations for Sunday, March 24 through Tuesday, March 26

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.

Avalanche dangers can be expected on many of the mountain passes requiring safety closures for winter maintenance operations, including Loveland Pass, Berthoud Pass, and West Loop Road along the I-70 mountain corridor. Other mountain passes that could see potential safety closures for critical work include CO 65 Grand Mesa, US 50 Monarch Pass and US 550 mountain corridor.

Winter Travel Tips for Motorists

  • Avoid or limit driving during the brunt of the storm on Sunday night into Monday.
  • 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.

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: