Snow Causing Accidents, Promises Slow Morning Commute

DENVER -- Weather conditions continue to deteriorate across eastern Colorado as a winter storm intensifies. Snowfall rates in excess of two inches per hour have been reported across portions of western Elbert County.

As of 9 p.m. Sunday snow totals sent into 7NEWS include...

9.5 inches - Kiowa

8.5 inches - Elizabeth

6.5 inches - Wellington

Expect widespread snow, heavy at times, to continue overnight. Accumulations will be in the 5 to 10 inch range around Denver, 6 to 12 inches in the foothills, with 12 to 18 inches over portions of Elbert, Lincoln, and Logan counties. Snow will taper to flurries from west to east during the afternoon hours Monday.

The storm will cause significant travel delays for the morning commute, with delays and closings possible. Accident alerts are in effect for Clear Creek, Gilpin, Weld and Larimer counties. The cities of Englewood and Golden are also on accident alert.

If you have a morning flight you are encouraged to check with your airline before heading to the airport.

Highway 15 between Ault and Sterling in northeast Colorado is closed due to the wind and snow, as well as Interstate 80 between Cheyenne, Wyoming and the Nebraska border. Highway 119 was briefly closed in Black Hawk because three casino buses were stuck in the snow, but has reopened. 7NEWS viewers have reported the Ski Train is also running late on its return to Denver.

In the Denver metropolitan area crews were put to work early Sunday afternoon to ensure area roads stay as clear as possible. The City and County of Denver has 68 plows on duty, and CDOT crews are working 12-hour shifts.

Forecasters warn that blizzard conditions may develop east of Denver, along Interstates 70 and 76, as gusty northeast winds combine with the snow to create low visibility.

In addition to travel delays, this storm has the potential to break trees and power lines due to the high water content. A power outage was reported near 78th and Wadsworth in Arvada Sunday evening, affecting approximately 165 Xcel Energy customers. The outage isn't believed to be weather related.

The heavy wet snow will be difficult to shovel, so exercise caution, especially if you have back or heart problems.

Numerous warnings and advisories are in effect, including a winter storm warning for Denver until 11 a.m. Monday.

Stay with 7NEWS and TheDenverChannel.com for the latest storm information. We'll have continuing coverage tonight on 7NEWS at 10 and in the morning starting on 7NEWS at 5.

The 24/7 Weather Center would like your help in documenting this storm system by sharing your best digital pictures. Just click here to upload them to the 24/7 Digital Album.