High Wind Warning Issued for Sangre de Cristo and Wet Mountains; Gusts Up to 85 MPH Expected
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for the Sangre de Cristo and Wet Mountains, with damaging wind gusts up to 85 mph expected through Tuesday evening.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Pueblo, CO, has issued a High Wind Warning for the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and surrounding areas. The warning is officially in effect from 11:00 PM MST on Monday, February 16, through 6:00 PM MST on Tuesday, February 17.
Affected Areas
The warning impacts several high-elevation regions and valleys in Southern Colorado, specifically:
- Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains: Areas between 8,500 and 11,000 feet, as well as elevations above 11,000 feet.
- Southern Sangre De Cristo Mountains: Areas between 7,500 and 11,000 feet, as well as elevations above 11,000 feet.
- Wet Mountains: Elevations between 6,300 and 10,000 feet, and areas above 10,000 feet.
- Wet Mountain Valley: Areas below 8,500 feet.
What You Should Do
Residents in the warning area are urged to take the following safety measures:
- Seek Shelter: Remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm and stay away from windows.
- Monitor Hazards: Watch for falling debris and tree limbs that could cause injury or property damage.
- Travel with Caution: If you must drive, use extreme caution. Travel will be difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles which are at risk of being blown over.
Expected Conditions
Southwest winds are expected to reach sustained speeds of 40 to 50 mph. Peak wind gusts could reach up to 85 mph. These conditions are likely to result in damaging winds that could blow down trees and power lines, potentially leading to power outages across the region.
Timeline
- Warning Onset: 11:00 PM MST, Monday, February 16
- Peak Conditions: Expected through Tuesday morning and afternoon.
- Warning Expiration: 6:00 PM MST, Tuesday, February 17
Source: NOAA Official Notice