High winds forecast and fire weather watch in place for parts of the Front Range

Denver - The Colorado Department of Transportation is urging motorists to prepare for dangerous travel conditions as high winds are forecast to impact the Front Range, where peak gusts may reach 75 to 85 mph on Dec. 17. Wind speeds will lessen as you move east of the foothills across the plains, but may still be quite strong along portions of the Interstate 25 corridor from Denver northward. With unseasonably warm and dry weather so far this winter season, a fire weather watch is also in place. These conditions may develop rapidly and could significantly affect high-profile vehicles, roadway safety and traffic operations.

Operators of high-profile vehicles should closely monitor conditions and be prepared to delay travel if winds become unsafe. Strong gusts can cause trailers to sway or tip, particularly on overpasses, bridges and open straightaways on the highway. Other vehicles that can be negatively impacted by high winds include some pick-up trucks, SUVs, RVs, vans and buses. If a motorist is towing or hauling a trailer, that can be blown around the road as well.

If CDOT, in coordination with the Colorado State Patrol, determines that high winds - typically 60 mph+ - could compromise traveler safety, a High Wind Restriction will be issued for a particular segment of highway. High profile vehicles such as semi-trucks, loaded or with an empty load, will be required to park and shelter in place or turn around until it is determined winds have subsided and it is safe for such vehicles to resume travel. The restriction helps prevent a truck, trailer or light-weighing vehicles from suddenly entering into another lane or causing a rollover.

Commercial drivers are also reminded to check that tire chains are properly secured and not dragging. Chains contacting the roadway can create sparks, posing a serious wildfire risk during dry and windy conditions. Motorists should also keep cigarette butts in their car instead of littering them out of their vehicle as this can result in a wildfire.

High winds may also lead to power outages, which could result in traffic signal failures at intersections. If traffic lights are dark or flashing, motorists must treat the intersection like a four-way stop. Slow down, come to a complete stop, and proceed only when it is safe and your turn.

Tips for all motorists:

• Reduce speed and keep both hands firmly on the wheel
• Be alert for sudden gusts, especially when passing larger vehicles
• Give high-profile vehicles plenty of room on the roadway
• Do not overcorrect if you get blown off course by a short gust
• Watch for debris in travel lanes and changing road conditions
• Avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind periods, if possible, especially for semi-trucks, light-weighing and smaller vehicles
• Once you are at your destination, park away from trees and power lines

CDOT crews will continue to monitor conditions and respond as needed. Travelers are encouraged to check COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner app for the latest road conditions and travel alerts before heading out.

About CDOT’s Division of Maintenance and Operations

The vision of the Division of Maintenance & Operations (DMO) is to create one integrated division. The division focus is on real-time maintenance and operations services, as well as near-term improvement projects. We can best support the crucial work of our five CDOT regions. Our support helps to provide the optimal service and safety for the traveling public in Colorado. CDOT’s DMO - we do more than you think.

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