A blizzard warning was released by the National Weather Service on Tuesday at 1:05 p.m. valid from 9 p.m. until Wednesday noon for Yuma and Kit Carson counties.

“Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations up to two inches. Winds gusting as high as 70 mph,” says the NWS. “Precipitation is forecast to initially begin as rain before quickly changing over to snowfall. There are still uncertainties on the exact changeover timing and location for Kit Carson and Yuma counties. The changeover timing will then depend on the snow amounts as well with a quicker occurrence increasing amounts.”

“The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Visibilities will drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning commute. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage,” states the NWS. “Conditions can deteriorate rapidly in winter weather situations. Allow extra time if you must travel. Keep a flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of emergency. Travel on Interstate 70 could become dangerous or impossible due to falling or blowing and drifting snow and poor visibility. Whiteout conditions often lead to disorientation, resulting in a life-threatening situation. Do not travel unless it is absolutely necessary. Severe winter weather conditions are either occurring or imminent which will produce extreme hardship or loss of life for unprotected livestock.”

What to do during a blizzard warning

Blizzard warnings are issued by the NWS for frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more. A blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely, leading to whiteout conditions making travel extremely difficult. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help to arrive.

Source: The National Weather Service