Cheyenne, WY – Backcountry travel in the Sierra Madre Range turns dangerous by 5 a.m. Tuesday as up to 3 feet of snow and 65 mph wind gusts create whiteout conditions through early Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 5 a.m. Tuesday until 5 a.m. Thursday for the Sierra Madre Range in southern Wyoming. Periods of heavy snow combined with powerful winds will reduce visibility below a quarter mile at times.
Storm totals between 1 and 3 feet are expected by Thursday morning, with the strongest winds along exposed ridges and passes. Blowing and drifting snow will make trails and access roads nearly impossible to navigate, especially for snowmobilers and hikers.
Outdoor recreation could quickly become life-threatening for anyone unprepared. Strong winds and extreme cold increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, and disorientation is likely in sustained whiteouts.
Travelers heading into the mountains should delay trips if possible. Those who must travel should carry extra food, water and a flashlight, and check 511 for updated Wyoming road conditions.
The warning remains in place until 5 a.m. Thursday, and additional alerts may be issued if snowfall rates intensify.
