After low expectations earlier this week, confidence is growing that the current storm system moving through Summit County will result in higher snow totals and larger traffic issues by the time it moves out of Colorado.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for Summit County and the central mountain area Wednesday, Oct. 11, warning of high winds and snow accumulations beyond the 1-2 inches predicted on Monday.

The winter weather advisory remains in effect from 6 p.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Friday. Total snow accumulation is estimated to be 4-14 inches, with the highest amounts north of the Interstate 70 corridor, according to the National Weather Service. Wind gusts could be as high as 60 mph.

Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling, as roads will become slippery in spots, especially through mountain passes. The most impactful weather and worst road conditions are reportedly expected through the evening on Thursday.

At above 11,000 feet, the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnels could receive 5-10 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service. West of the tunnels, Silverthorne could receive 1-3 inches, while Vail Pass could see 4-8 inches. In Georgetown, 1-4 inches of snow could fall, but headed east toward Denver, snow accumulation is expected to be less than an inch.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area noted on Facebook the early winter storm should create ideal conditions for snowmaking for at least two full days. The snowmaking team is scheduled, and the ski area plans to make the best out of this “favorable forecast,” the post states. A subsequent post noted the last day for biking access on the mountain was Tuesday, Oct. 10.

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