Riverton, Wyo. – Bright sunshine is baking central Wyoming today, and the dry morning air won’t last forever. Temperatures are racing toward 99 degrees this afternoon, making this one of the hottest days of the week before showers and thunderstorms begin working back into the region over the next several days. Drivers crossing open stretches of U.S. 26, U.S. 287 and Wyoming Highway 789 should expect shimmering pavement, increasing afternoon heat, and occasional gusty winds.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, skies remain mostly sunny through today with light morning winds becoming north to northeast around 5 to 8 mph this afternoon. While today stays dry, the weather pattern becomes noticeably more active beginning Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday.
The biggest concern today is the heat. With afternoon readings approaching 99 degrees, anyone working outside should take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon. Vehicles can heat rapidly in direct sunlight, so never leave children or pets inside parked cars.
By Tuesday afternoon, scattered showers and thunderstorms become possible after about 5 p.m., with a 40% chance of precipitation. Gusty winds could accompany stronger storms, although widespread severe weather is not expected at this time. Meteorologists continue monitoring thunderstorm development across Wyoming as monsoonal moisture slowly returns to the state.
Wednesday currently appears to bring the greatest opportunity for wet weather. Showers become more numerous, with precipitation chances climbing to 60% during the day and 90% Wednesday night. Wet pavement may create slower travel during the evening commute, especially on highways west of Riverton and through portions of Fremont County.
Looking farther ahead, temperatures ease into the upper 80s by Thursday while scattered thunderstorms remain possible. Beyond this week, climate outlooks favor above-normal temperatures returning late next week, suggesting summer heat is likely to remain a familiar visitor across Wyoming.
If you’re traveling across central Wyoming today or later this week, allow extra time when thunderstorms develop and keep an eye on changing sky conditions. How hot has it gotten in your neighborhood today?
Five-Day Outlook for Riverton, Wyoming
- Monday: Sunny and hot. High 99°. Light winds becoming north to northeast 5–8 mph.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. 40% chance of afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms. High 94°, low 63°.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny with showers and thunderstorms becoming likely. 60% chance. High 91°, low 60°.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny with a 50% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High 87°, low 60°.
- Friday: Sunny and warmer. High 93°, low 63°.
