Snow-packed roads and high winds are causing poor visibility and delays during this morning’s commute.
Drive times are more than double the norm, and slick roads have resulted in fender benders and vehicles slipping and sliding off the road, according to Sgt. John Hahn, spokesman for the Colorado State Patrol.
“It’s kind of rough going everywhere this morning,” Hahn said. “If you plan to leave at the same time, you’re going to be very, very late.”
At about 9 p.m. last night, snow plows were called out and began spreading liquid and solid de-icer, according to Stacey Stegman, spokeswoman for the Colorado Department of Transportation.
“There are very few sections of highway in the state that don’t have some sort of moisture on them,” Stegman said.
Road conditions are worse in areas west and south of Denver. High winds and blowing snow caused several problems in the northeast part of Colorado.
Despite slow traffic, no major accidents were reported as drivers appear to be taking their time along the interstate and major highways, Stegman said.
Later today, roads will likely become slushy as the de-icer begins to take effect.
People traveling to the mountains will also face severe driving conditions. Loveland Pass closed last night and remains closed this morning due to severe weather. Chain laws are in effect across the state, including west bound U.S. Highway C-470, Stegman said.
Delays are expected at Denver International Airport this morning as de-icing crews continue to clear runways.
About 65 flights have been canceled.
The airport received about three inches of snow last night and is expecting another one to two inches today.
Congested roadways are causing delays for RTD bus routs. Most buses are running about 20 minutes behind schedule, according to RTD spokeswoman Daria Serna.
“The longer the trip, the longer the time will take,” Serna said. “light rail is running on schedule, Serna said.
