Colorado Transportation Officials Issue Ski Traffic Warning

Colorado transportation officials have issued multiple warnings against weekend travel in our state, but a specific warning was issued for ski traffic ahead of the snowstorm.

I-70 up to the Continental Divide and Foothills west of Denver and Boulder may see more than 36 inches of snow, officials said.

"Snow is expected to be heavy and winds may create blizzard conditions," the COtrip weather alert read.

"Travelers, including ski traffic, should plan to get to their destination Friday, and be prepared to stay through Monday."

Road closures are "highly likely," transportation officials said.

An avalanche watch has also been issued for the Front Range.

"Very dangerous avalanche conditions may develop in the afternoon or overnight on Saturday, March 13, as snow rapidly accumulates during a powerful winter storm," the Colorado Avalanche Information Center said in an alert.

"Avalanches are possible at all elevations and in unusual locations. Backcountry travelers will encounter increasingly easy to trigger avalanches and increasing avalanche size as snow accumulates several feet deep. Expect dangerous avalanche conditions to last into Monday."

Don’t miss the latest news updates in Colorado. Sign up for free Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

Commercial transportation will need chains and essential workers who must travel are asked to have adequate tires, officials said.

"If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency," a warning from the National Weather Service read.

You can call 511 to check the latest road conditions, or you can check an interactive Colorado map and road cameras here.