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Union County Under Severe Winter Storm Warning

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. on-county-under-severe-winter-storm-warning.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 18:04 GMT by 14 NEWS
      Locales: Colorado, UNITED STATES

UNION COUNTY, Colo. - January 31st, 2026 - Union County is currently grappling with a severe winter storm that has transformed roadways into treacherous landscapes, prompting a critical public safety warning from the Union County Sheriff's Office. The situation, rapidly escalating over the past 24 hours, has led to widespread travel disruptions and poses significant risks to residents. The Sheriff's Office is strongly urging citizens to remain indoors and avoid all non-essential travel until conditions improve, a message becoming increasingly urgent as snowfall continues and drifts become more substantial.

The immediate concern stems from the rapid accumulation of snow and the formation of massive drifts across the county. These drifts, reaching heights of several feet in some areas, have rendered numerous roadways completely impassable. Reports are flooding in of vehicles stranded, highlighting the immediacy of the danger. While emergency services are actively preparing and responding to calls, the sheer scale of the storm is straining resources. Dispatchers are reporting a significant increase in calls related to stuck vehicles and minor accidents, creating a logistical nightmare for first responders attempting to navigate the snow-choked routes.

Beyond the immediate travel hazards, officials are concerned about the potential for prolonged disruptions. The weight of the snow is putting a strain on infrastructure, raising fears of power outages and potential structural damage to buildings. The county's Department of Public Works has mobilized its snowplow crews, but their progress is hampered by the relentless snowfall and the sheer volume of snow needing to be cleared. The primary focus remains on opening key arterial roads to allow emergency vehicles access to all parts of the county.

This storm is unique in its intensity and the speed at which conditions deteriorated. While Union County is no stranger to winter weather, long-time residents are reporting that this snowfall rivals some of the most significant storms in recent memory. Meteorological data confirms that this is part of a larger, multi-state weather system currently impacting the central United States. A prolonged period of arctic air has settled over the region, providing the ideal conditions for heavy, wet snowfall. The forecast offers little immediate relief, with continued snowfall expected throughout the weekend and into early next week.

"We are asking residents to take this situation extremely seriously," stated Sheriff Evelyn Hayes in a press conference earlier today. "Your safety is our top priority. Staying home is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself and allow our emergency crews to focus on those who are truly in need. Please check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities, to ensure they are safe and have the resources they need."

The Union County Sheriff's Office is utilizing all available communication channels to keep residents informed. Regular updates are being posted on their official social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram) and on the county website (www.unioncountyco.gov). Residents are encouraged to monitor these sources for the latest information on road closures, emergency services availability, and weather forecasts. A dedicated emergency hotline has also been established to handle non-emergency inquiries and provide support to residents. The hotline number is 555-SNOW (555-7669).

The county is also coordinating with neighboring counties and state agencies to secure additional resources if needed. Requests for assistance from the Colorado National Guard are being considered, although deployment is contingent on the evolving severity of the situation. Local school districts have already announced closures for Monday, January 31st, and Tuesday, February 1st, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.

Beyond the immediate crisis, this event underscores the importance of winter preparedness. Residents are reminded to have emergency kits stocked with essential supplies such as food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries. Ensuring vehicles are properly winterized with snow tires and emergency supplies is also crucial. This storm serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of proactive planning in the face of severe weather events. The Union County Sheriff's Office will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as they become available.