COLORADO FORECAST: Storm could bring up to 24 inches of snow, 55 MPH winds, and steep temp drop

The National Weather Service is calling for heavy snow, high winds, and steep temperature drops in Colorado over the weekend, ahead of a powerful storm system that is likely to deliver the first significant snowfall of the season.

The storm system is forecasted to travel along the Continental Divide region of southern Colorado, with up to 24 inches of snow predicted to fall over the mountains southwest of Aspen by Monday, according to the service.

Rabbit Ears Pass, Rocky Mountain National Park and the Medicine Bow Range, the Mountains of Summit County, the Mosquito Range, and the Indian Peaks could see up to 12 inches of snow this weekend, with higher amounts possible across the highest elevations, the service said.

Snowfall is expected to begin at midnight on Saturday and continue through 6 AM on Monday.

Strong winds will play a role in deteriorating conditions, with NWS predicting wind gusts up to 55 MPH on Saturday and Sunday.

According to tweet from the NWS Grand Junction branch, high temperatures will plummet up to 27 degrees in some areas between Saturday and Sunday. Check out the 24 hour change in temperature map below:

"Early season impacts to travel, especially over the mountain passes, are expected. Conditions will become treacherous in the backcountry and should be taken into consideration for hikers, hunters, and other recreators," NWS said.

Visit the National Weather Service website, for official updates.

Editor's Note: All weather statements are subject to change.