Winter storm warning issued; travelers encouraged to be prepared

The National Weather Service has upgraded its winter weather watch to a winter storm warning from 10 p.m. Feb. 3 through midnight on Feb. 4 for areas surrounding Vail and Beaver Creek. Snow, blowing snow and gusts up to 40 miles per hour are possible. Snow accumulations of six to 12 inches expected, with the potential for up to 18 inches in some areas. Those traveling should be prepared for weather-related driving conditions, including snow packed and icy roads with limited visibility at times. More information at 1.usa.gov/16vYrBT.

For up-to-date travel information, including road conditions, travel times, chain laws, road closures and advisories:

• Visit www.cotrip.org
• Subscribe to local real time road and weather alerts at www.ecalert.org  
• Download the Colorado Department of Transportation travel app
• Call 511 from your smart phone, or toll free 1-877-315-7623

ReadyColorado also offers travel preparedness tips, including preparing a winter emergency road kit. Emergency road kits should include a shovel, windshield scraper, small broom, flashlights, water, snack food, extra winter clothing, necessary medications and blankets to name a few. A full list of road kit items is available by visiting readycolorado.com/blog/winter-weather-travel-safety.

As a reminder, those who live in East Vail neighborhoods are encouraged to pick up a vehicle placard for use during Interstate 70 closures. By displaying the vehicle access placard, those who regularly travel to and from neighborhoods east of Aspen Lane will be directed through an eastbound checkpoint on the South Frontage Road for immediate access to their neighborhood. All remaining traffic will be directed to park in the Vail Village and Lionshead parking structures as well as Ford Park until I-70 is reopened. The placards are available from the Vail Police Department records desk, located at 75 S. Frontage Rd. They’re free and available to all requesting households.