Colorado Drivers Face Dangerous Conditions as First Measurable Snowfall Causes Major Traffic Delays on I-225
DENVER, CO — The first measurable snowfall of the season has hit the Denver metro area, creating hazardous driving conditions and significant slowdowns along major highways, particularly Interstate 225 between Denver and Aurora.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) cameras captured live views early Thursday showing heavy traffic congestion and slick, snow-covered lanes as snowfall intensified during the morning commute. Some areas reported up to 2 inches of accumulation, marking the city’s first notable winter weather event of the season.
Snowfall Creates Treacherous Commute
The light-to-moderate snow began late Wednesday night and quickly blanketed portions of the Denver area by sunrise. While totals remained modest — generally 1 to 3 inches across the metro corridor — the timing of the snowfall combined with cold pavement temperatures led to widespread icing and reduced traction.
Traffic along I-225, I-70, and I-25 slowed to a crawl as commuters navigated slick conditions and near-whiteout visibility in isolated pockets. Plow crews were deployed across Denver and Aurora, but with snow continuing through mid-morning, road clearing efforts lagged behind the rapidly developing traffic.
Officials urged motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden lane changes, reminding drivers that even small amounts of early-season snow can create black ice and unexpected slick spots at intersections and ramps.
CDOT Issues Winter Driving Warnings
The Colorado Department of Transportation issued multiple alerts Thursday morning advising drivers to expect extended travel times and to avoid unnecessary travel where possible until road treatments could take effect.
“Even a couple of inches of snow can make for very difficult travel, especially early in the season when drivers haven’t yet adjusted,” CDOT said in a statement.
The agency also confirmed that several minor fender-benders and slide-offs had occurred on I-225 and nearby routes, though no major injuries were reported.
Temperatures to Stay Below Freezing
The National Weather Service in Boulder reported that temperatures hovered in the upper 20s to low 30s across the Denver area Thursday morning, keeping roads icy throughout the day. Snow showers are expected to taper off by the afternoon, but frigid overnight lows may allow melted precipitation to refreeze, prompting additional travel hazards for the Friday morning commute.
Forecasters noted that the Denver-Aurora corridor will remain under winter-weather-like conditions through Thursday evening, with improved visibility and partial clearing late tonight.
Weekend Outlook: Cold but Calmer
Looking ahead, forecasters expect a brief break in precipitation through the weekend, though temperatures will remain well below seasonal averages. Highs will stay in the upper 30s Friday and Saturday before another potential snow system moves into the Rockies early next week.
CDOT is advising travelers to keep winter emergency kits in vehicles and check road conditions before heading out by visiting COTrip.org or using the CDOT mobile app.
For the latest weather alerts and safety updates across the state, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
