DENVER, COLORADO – Drivers are facing multiple highway closures along Interstate 70 and on US 40 at Berthoud Pass due to the ongoing winter storm slamming into the Front Range. With 2-4 feet of snow possible in the mountains through Friday, CDOT officials expect significant disruptions and additional closures as avalanche danger rises, and further mitigation efforts are required in the high country.
UPDATE: US 40 at Berthoud Pass reopened at approximately 8:20 PM MT.
Current Road closures include:
- I-70 (Both Directions) Closure: Between Exit 254: US 40; Genesee and Exit 256: Lookout Mountain (Genesee) at Mile Point 255.5. Road Closed Expect Delays due to a crash.
- I-70 (West) Closure: Between Exit 232: US 40; Empire Junction and Exit 228: CR 381; Georgetown (Georgetown) at Mile Point 228. Road Closed Expect delays due to safety concerns.
- I-70 (East) Closure: Between Exit 226: Silver Plume and Exit 228: CR 381; Georgetown (Silver Plume) at Mile Point 226. Road closed expect delays due to a stalled vehicle.
- I-70 (East) Closure: Between Exit 203: CO 9; East Frisco and Exit 205: US 6; CO 9; Silverthorne (Silverthorne) at Mile Point 205. Road closed expect delays due to safety concerns.
- CO 119 (Both Directions): At Rollinsville Road (Nederland) at Mile Point 25. Road closed expect delays due to safety concerns.
- US 285 (North): At Hathaway Street (Fairplay) at Mile Point 183. Road closed expect delays due to a stalled vehicle. Slower speeds are advised.
Significant snow will continue to fall throughout Thursday and into Friday morning. COT encourages drivers to check COtrip.org to stay updated about current road closures and travel alerts and be ready for unexpected and unannounced delays.
Here are some additional winter driving tips to keep in mind during the storm.
Stay Informed: Before you hit the road, check local traffic reports and weather updates. Avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary, especially in areas directly affected by the storm.
Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is winter-ready. This includes checking your battery, lights, brakes, tires, and exhaust system. Carry winter gear, such as chains, a snow shovel, windshield scraper, and a bag of sand or cat litter for traction if you get stuck.
Slow Down: Reduce your speed to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice. Remember, speed limits are designed for clear, dry conditions.
Increase Following Distance: Increase your following distance to five to six seconds. This extra space will give you more time to stop safely.
Use Headlights: Turn on your vehicle’s headlights to increase visibility, even during daylight hours. This helps other drivers see you.
Avoid Cruise Control: Cruise control can cause your car to accelerate at inopportune times on slippery surfaces, leading to loss of control.
Know How to Respond to a Skid: If your car starts to skid, remain calm. Steer in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes to prevent a spin.
Stay Warm and Safe: If you’re stranded, stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. Keep blankets, a first-aid kit, food, and water in your car in case of emergencies.
Respect Road Closures: Heed road closure signs and detours. They are in place for your safety and the safety of emergency and road crews.
Remember, the best way to stay safe during a winter storm is to avoid traveling. If you must go out, these tips can help you navigate the challenges safely. Stay warm, stay informed, and above all, stay safe.
