The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for an incoming storm that’s expected to hit Southwest Colorado on Tuesday afternoon and last through Christmas Day.
The advisory takes effect at noon Tuesday and lasts through 6 p.m. Wednesday. It includes the towns of Silverton, Hesperus and Rico.
During that time, up to a foot of new snow could fall in the high country of the San Juan Mountains. The Weather Service said travel over Coal Bank, Molas and Red Mountain passes could be very difficult.
“Slow down and use caution while traveling,” the Weather Service said. “The latest road conditions for the state can be obtained by calling 5-1-1.”
The chance of snow in the high country will linger until Saturday night.
Tuesday night in Montezuma County, there’s a 90% chance of snow showers, with 2-4 inches accumulating overnight. On Christmas, there’s a 50% chance of snow showers, mainly before 11 a.m.
The Weather Service says there’s also a chance of snow at lower elevations Wednesday through Friday.