Two weeks after the Christmas blizzard caused travel chaos in northeast and east central Colorado, another storm system is expected to bring similar challenges for the southeast.

Starting during the early morning hours Monday, a blizzard warning will be in effect across Baca, Las Animas, and eastern Costilla counties, as well as neighboring some New Mexico counties. Four to 15 inches of snow are possible, with wind gusts between 55 and 65 miles per hour expected. Blizzard conditions are predicted to persist through early Tuesday morning. The heaviest snow amounts are expected to remain south of Highway 50. Snowfall rates could reach three inches per hour.

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A winter storm watch will be in effect for all or portions of 10 southeast Colorado counties starting late Sunday night, continuing through Monday afternoon. Counties covered by the watch include Prowers, Bent, Kiowa, Cheyenne, Kit Carson, Lincoln, Elbert, El Paso, and Huerfano. Two to 8 inches of snow are predicted, accompanied by winds gusts up to 60 mph. There is potential for the watch to be upgraded to a winter storm warning, with the blizzard-warned area possibly expanding as well.

The winter storm watch extends into portions of Nebraska, Kansas, New Mexico, the Oklahoma panhandle, and northern Texas.

A high wind watch will be in effect Monday for Otero and Crowley counties, along with portions of Lincoln, Elbert, El Paso, and Pueblo counties. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible. Snow accumulation in those areas is generally expected to remain below an inch.

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Across the region, snow is expected to diminish by Monday night.

Later in the week, temperatures are expected to drop below the freezing mark and remain there into the weekend. High temperatures Thursday will be around or slightly above freezing before dropping into the single digits. Some areas may fall below zero Thursday night.

Friday and Saturday, highs in the 20s are forecast before dropping back to around zero each night.

Travel in the area will become difficult over the next 36 hours, with blowing and drifting snow likely to result in road closures. Delay travel in the warned area if possible. If travel cannot be postponed, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility, and leave extra space between your vehicle and those ahead of you. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.

If you become stranded while driving, stay with your vehicle. Run the engine 10 minutes every hour for warmth, and insure the exhaust pipe is clear to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Check the latest road conditions by calling 5-1-1, or visit https://COTrip.org.