CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Powerful winds are expected to impact southeast Wyoming beginning Monday afternoon, prompting high wind watches and warnings for Cheyenne and surrounding areas, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters say wind-prone locations along major corridors could see gusts up to 65 mph, with widespread gusts of 50 to 60 mph possible through Tuesday. The strongest winds are expected to develop late Monday and persist into Tuesday and early Wednesday.
A High Wind Warning is in effect for portions of Interstate 80 near Arlington and the Elk Mountain area from 5 p.m. Monday until 3 p.m. Tuesday, where gusts could peak near 65 mph. Additional warnings include the I-80 Summit and Foothills from 8 p.m. Monday through 5 p.m. Tuesday, and the I-25 corridor from Bordeaux to Whitaker from 8 p.m. Monday until noon Tuesday, with gusts approaching 60 to 65 mph.
Even outside the warned areas, including Cheyenne, Laramie, Wheatland and surrounding valleys, forecasters caution that gusts could still reach around 50 mph, strong enough to create hazardous travel conditions.
The National Weather Service warned that dangerous crosswinds may make travel difficult, particularly for lightweight and high-profile vehicles, including trucks, campers and trailers. Drivers are urged to check road conditions before traveling and consider delaying trips if possible.
Residents are also advised to secure loose outdoor items, including holiday decorations, trash containers and construction materials, which could become airborne in strong gusts.
Meteorologists say the winds are being driven by a strong pressure gradient associated with an active weather pattern across the northern Rockies and High Plains. While conditions may briefly ease, stronger and more widespread winds are possible again Tuesday night into Wednesday.
