Wind gusts of up to 95 mph. forced officials to close three of Colorado’s major roadways to semi truck traffic on Friday morning.
The ban was instated on December 29th in Colorado and applies to Interstate 25 between the Colorado and Wyoming border, and to Interstate 70 between Colorado State Highway 470 and the Eisenhower Tunnel. A ban has also been instated along US Highway 285 southbound from mile marker 183 to 211.
According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, wind gusts of around 95 mph. are expected across the state, posing a major danger to high profile trucks, particularly those whose trailers are empty. The strong wind will also create blowing snow, reducing visibility on the roadway and increasing the danger.
The travel ban has left truckers stranded at truck stops, rest stops, and parking lots across the state as they wait out the dangerous conditions.
Passenger vehicles are still allowed to travel freely along the highways, but motorists are advised to use extreme caution and be aware of the wind.
A high wind warning is in effect until 3 p.m. on Friday afternoon, but Colorado Department of Transportation officials have not provided an estimated time for when the high profile vehicle bans will be lifted.
You can check the latest weather conditions on Colorado DOT’s Interactive Road Map.