(COLO) – Southeast Colorado is in for a possible major snowstorm Tuesday night March 16, through Wednesday, March 17 that will affect roadways in the area. The Colorado State Patrol is asking travelers in the southeast portion of the state to stay home if possible during this round of inclement weather.
If you need to travel, take precautions to ensure a safe trip. Use caution when driving and reduce your speed when traveling on wet or snow-packed roadways. Make sure you have the proper equipment to get through the snow. This includes having four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive vehicles, and a tire tread depth with at least 3/16th of an inch. Have chains or an alternative traction device in your vehicle.
Even having these items may not be enough to travel through deep snow as well as snowdrifts that can cover roadways. It is not advised to try and drive through deep snow. Conditions may deteriorate quickly leaving motorists stranded.
Plan ahead in case you get stranded and make sure you have blankets, food, water, shovel, phones, and chargers available in your vehicle. Make sure to check that the vehicle’s exhaust pipe is not covered by snow.
Motorists should expect possible road closures due to the weather. If roads are closed do not try to navigate around the barriers. Look for alternate routes around the storm area.
The Colorado State Patrol is adjusting schedules to bring additional Troopers to patrol during the storm. If motorists need assistance, call 9-1-1, but be prepared for extended response times due to potential poor road conditions.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.