1/17/23 Tuesday 12:30 pm

Based on the increased winds, cooler temperatures, and enhanced snowfall rates it appears the front is approaching and/or crossing western portions of the forecast area.

― Southwest Colorado Winter Travel Alert ―

CDOT implements safety closure for US 550 Coal Bank & Molas passes

Closure planned for tomorrow morning for US 160 Wolf Creek Pass

US 550 north of Durango 
US 550 Coal Bank and Molas passes between Purgatory and Silverton have been closed to ensure safety for motorists. The safety closure was implemented at 11 a.m. today due to adverse weather and high avalanche danger. It is not known when the corridor will reopen. Northbound travelers will encounter a closed gate just north of Purgatory, near Cascade Creek (MP 52). Southbound travelers will encounter a closed gate at Silverton (MP 70). Do not attempt to bypass the closed gates.

US 160 Wolf Creek Pass east of Pagosa Springs 
US 160 Wolf Creek Pass will close tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. so that crews can perform winter maintenance operations. Westbound traffic will be stopped just west of the ski area at the pass summit(MP 167) and eastbound traffic will be stopped near Treasure Falls (MP 157). Do not attempt to bypass the closed gates. Maintenance operations will last for much of the morning, the exact time of reopening the highway is not known.

With the prolonged storm system expected to remain in the area, travelers should be aware that additional maintenance work and safety closures may be implemented on many southwest Colorado highways over the next few days. Visit cotrip.org for the latest information on road closures and conditions.

Thanks for following and supporting the site!

Click here to donate 

If you prefer to donate with Venmo: @Jeff-Givens-11

Click here to submit a weather report or question

Send your weather videos to:  durangoweatherguy@gmail.com