Due to recent weather and future forecasts for Douglas County and the state, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office has activated its Emergency Operations Center to effectively meet the needs of its community during this weather event.

Because of the current snowfall and the expected 1-2 inches per hour, shelters have been established at the Douglas County Fairgrounds Kirk Hall located at 500 Fairgrounds Drive, Castle Rock, CO, and Chaparral High School located at 15655 Brookstone Drive, Parker CO in partnership with the Red Cross. Additional shelters have been placed on stand-by throughout the County and will be activated if the need arises.

Due to current roadway conditions (blizzard), low and/or zero visibility, we are asking citizens not to travel unless it is an emergency. If traveling, do not travel alone. If you are involved in a property damage accident, Douglas County is currently on accident alert. This includes the cities of Parker, Castle Rock and Lone Tree. Accidents can be reported within 72 hrs to Law Enforcement because of this status. If you are stranded, remain in your vehicle to stay warm, dry and keep hydrated until help arrives.

Citizens are also asked to only use 911 when needing to report fire and Law Enforcement emergencies. Citizens are also asked to wait to report Non-Emergent calls due to the current weather conditions.

Roadways that are currently closed in Douglas County are as follows:

HWY 86 east to I-70 from Castle Rock, CO

I-25 from Lincoln Avenue South to Colorado Springs Colorado

When additional information is available, it will be released to the community through updated press releases.