Cheyenne, Wyoming – A high-impact winter pattern is expected to persist across eastern Wyoming as the New Year approaches, with strong signals for recurring snow, powerful winds, and dangerous travel conditions from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale atmospheric patterns favor repeated intrusions of Arctic air and fast-moving winter systems across the central Rockies and High Plains during this period. According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, colder-than-average temperatures are likely to dominate, allowing most precipitation to fall as snow. While individual snowfall totals may vary, the combination of frequent light to moderate snow and strong winds raises concern for repeated ground blizzard conditions.
Eastern Wyoming’s open terrain is particularly vulnerable to blowing and drifting snow. Major travel corridors including I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie, I-25 north toward Casper, and US-30 may experience extended closures or severe restrictions during stronger wind events. Even modest snowfall could lead to near-zero visibility when winds increase, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
Wind chills are expected to drop well below zero during colder stretches, posing risks to livestock, infrastructure, and anyone traveling long distances. Brief breaks between systems are possible, but temperatures are expected to remain below seasonal norms overall, increasing the likelihood of icy roadways and prolonged snow cover.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation urges residents and travelers to closely monitor road conditions, carry winter survival kits, and avoid unnecessary travel during active storm periods. Ranchers and rural residents are encouraged to prepare for cold stress on livestock and ensure access to shelter and feed.
While quieter intervals may occur, the overall setup supports a cold, windy, and snow-prone start to 2026 across Cheyenne and much of eastern Wyoming, with winter hazards persisting well into early January.
