Summit Fire & EMS is reporting that an avalanche near the Conoco in Copper Mountain has ruptured a natural-gas line. Interstate 70 is currently closed between Frisco and Vail. Crews are on scene.
I-70 is closed in both directions over Vail Pass due to extreme weather conditions and an avalanche. Anticipate the closure to remain in place until mid-morning. Avalanche crews are on scene and will be mitigating the hazards.
Colorado 91 is also closed between Leadville and Copper. US 24 is still open but you will not be able to access CO 91.
US 6 Loveland Pass is closed due to adverse conditions. The Colorado Department of Transportation states there is no estimated reopen time for any of these highways. Mountain travel in these areas is highly discouraged at this time.
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center is reporting avalanche danger at extreme, 5 out of 5. It is advising against any travel in the backcountry, with large avalanches expected in many areas.
The National Weather Service has issued winter weather warnings and winter weather advisories for most mountain areas today through 5 p.m. Thursday. CDOT reports all mountain areas, including the I-70 mountain corridor, are expecting heavy snow at times with accumulations 10-24 inches possible, with winds gusting up to 55 mph. Expect traffic delays, chain and traction laws.