Forecasters are warning of hazardous traveling in Colorado’s mountains because of winter storms and state transportation officials are recommending drivers pack winter survival kits.

A Pacific storm front could dump up to 14 inches in the north-central mountains by Friday afternoon. Driving will be dicey because strong winds, with gusts up to 50 mph, will cause drifting and blowing snow.

A powerful winter storm that moved into western Colorado on Christmas Day was expected to bring up to 3 feet of snow in parts of the western mountains.

Just a dusting of snow was forecast for the Denver metro area.