For 12/8/09: For Today: The flood gates on this storm have been opened all over the southwest with whiteout and blizzard conditions being reported down by Durango and heavy snow still stretching from there through to our area. A cold front associated with this wave settled in overnight and kicked the wind and snow to a new level. We can expect significant snowfall continuing through today but look for the wind to offer dangerously low windchill values and travel conditions.

Overnight lows were fairly mild compared to what we have been seeing with Crested Butte reporting 18 degrees at midnight and Gunnison hovering around 15 most of the night. Daytime highs won’t move much but will top out in the mid 20’s. Look for more of the same tonight with more snow and cloud cover keeping the temperatures in the teens.

The cold front that moved in with this wave is relative given the cold that we have been seeing but it’s acting as a good kicker for the snow production. The mid 20’s is our sweet spot and as long as the wind allows the moisture to stay it will mean snow. Travel will be awful today with the blowing snow and be prepared for very cold windchill values. Bundle up or hunker down and let this one play out. 

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