Snow Causes Major Closures On I-70, Westbound Lanes Reopen From C-470 To Eisenhower Tunnel
(CBS4) - A winter storm caused significant closures on Interstate 70 Friday. The westbound lanes of the highway were closed at noon from Golden all the way to the Eisenhower Tunnel. Those lanes reopened at 9 p.m. Friday.
"Travel could be very difficult to impossible with safety closures and avalanche events likely," the CDOT website warned. "Heavy snow with strong gusty winds will create blowing and drifting snow producing low visibilities."
Eastbound I-70 was closed at Silverthorne but that also reopened on Friday night.
"The National Weather Service has a Winter Storm Warning through today along the I-70 Mountain Corridor," CDOT stated.
RELATED: Loveland Ski Area Announced They'll Be Closed Friday Due To High Winds
"Wind chill temperatures are forecast well below zero. Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts should be prepared, traveling with emergency kits, and expect possible long road closures in the central and northern mountain areas," officials warned.
If you are planning on traveling on the I-70 mountain corridor, check cotrip.org/travelAlerts for the latest alerts and closures.
The Town of Silverthorne opened a shelter at Summit Middle School at 6 p.m. Friday for stranded travelers.
Highway 285 was closed Fairplay to Kenosha Pass about 6 p.m. Friday but reopened a little after 9 p.m. Friday.
Additional Information from CDOT:
The Colorado Department of Transportation advises motorists wanting to travel to or from the high country to stay where they are currently located through this weekend. Adverse winter weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, high winds, and low visibility continue to impact various areas of the state. As we head into this weekend, please be advised of forecasted weather and road conditions and adjust your travel plans accordingly. Be prepared as travel times may be significantly extended. Allow yourself additional time to reach your destination.
