Cheyenne, WY – Travel and outdoor recreation in southeast Wyoming’s high country could turn life-threatening by daybreak Tuesday as up to 3 feet of wind-driven snow begins hammering the Sierra Madre Range.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, a Winter Storm Warning takes effect at 5 a.m. Tuesday and remains in place until 5 a.m. Thursday. Forecasters expect 1 to 3 feet of total snowfall, with wind gusts reaching 60 mph. Blowing snow will frequently reduce visibility below a quarter mile, creating near-whiteout conditions along exposed ridgelines and mountain passes.
The Sierra Madre Range, stretching through southern Carbon County near the Colorado border, is especially vulnerable to extreme drifting. Strong winds will move snow across backcountry trails and forest access roads, making navigation difficult for snowmobilers and hikers. Officials warn that anyone caught outdoors without proper winter gear could face frostbite or hypothermia in a short amount of time.
Motorists should reconsider travel plans through midweek. If travel is unavoidable, keep extra food, water, blankets and a flashlight inside your vehicle. Drivers can check the latest Wyoming road conditions by dialing 511 before heading into higher elevations.
Heavy snow and damaging wind will persist in waves through early Thursday, and additional advisories could follow if conditions intensify.
