Colorado is gearing up for a major winter storm that could throw meters of snow, with the governor activating members of the National Guard on Thursday to be ready to assist in search and rescue efforts.
The weekend storm starts Friday night and can leave up to 60 centimeters of snow in the Denver area and even more in areas like Boulder and Fort Collins on Monday, the National Weather Service said.
Parts of Wyoming, including Cheyenne, can also see 60 centimeters or more on Monday morning.
Traveling will be “difficult or impossible,” said the weather service in Boulder, and Colorado officials have recommended people to stay at home or somewhere safe, especially during the height of the storm.
“Let me advise you: you don’t want to be one of those people who need to be searched, found and rescued,” said Governor Jared Polis on Thursday. “Much better, if the snow starts to fall heavily in your area, stay home and don’t get out.”
Polis said he authorized the activation of the Colorado National Guard, which will involve about 50 staff and specialized equipment to assist in search and rescue.
The director of the state’s transportation department said snow could fall at a rate of 2.5 cm per hour, and she asked people to keep the roads clear for essential trips.
The Northern Front Range, which includes Fort Collins, is likely to be the hardest hit, Polis said.
The city of Boulder said it may be the biggest snowstorm seen this year.
Denver airport has warned of expected flight delays and cancellations, and the Federal Aviation Administration said travel to Colorado, Wyoming and Nebraska could be affected.
The Colorado State Patrol chief said that if drivers need to travel, they should be prepared with extra clothes, food and water in case they get stuck.
