Hazardous weather outlook and travel restrictions in effect in Grand County until Saturday

The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for Grand County that is in effect until Saturday. A winter storm is moving across Colorado bringing moderate to heavy snow Friday evening into Saturday morning that will cause dangerous driving conditions.

Significant snow accumulations are expected, with the mountains forecasted to receive 8-12 inches of snow. Gusts of wind up to 35 mph are expected in areas of Grand County.

Motorists can expect treacherous driving conditions that are expected to deteriorate rapidly Friday evening.

Trailers and towed vehicles will be restricted on Interstate 70 west of Golden to Silverthorne starting Friday at 4 p.m until Saturday at 8 a.m. The same restrictions will apply to other roads and highways, including U.S. Highway 40 from Winter Park to Empire.

CDOT stated that even with restrictions in place it expects safety closures on I-70 from Golden to Idaho Springs may be necessary. The agency urges motorists to travel between the mountains and Front Range before condition worsen Friday afternoon, or wait until the storm has passed Saturday afternoon.

With Winter Park Resort opening Friday morning and Summit County ski resorts opening this weekend, CDOT also encourages people to carpool and expect slower travel times.

Travelers should check COTrip.org prior to departing for the latest information on any possible closures.