Riverton, Wyoming – Travel across the Bighorn Mountains could become nearly impassable at times starting before sunrise Tuesday as heavy snow and powerful wind gusts sweep across northern Wyoming.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 5 a.m. Tuesday until 5 p.m. MST Wednesday for the Bighorn Mountains West and Southeast zones. Snow totals will range from 8 to 15 inches, with up to 18 inches possible north of Powder River Pass. Winds will gust to 40 mph Tuesday afternoon, then intensify to as high as 60 mph along east-facing slopes Wednesday afternoon, creating blowing and drifting snow.
Wyoming Department of Transportation officials warn that highways over Powder River Pass and higher elevations could see extended closures or chain requirements as visibility drops and drifts deepen.
In Jackson Hole, including the town of Jackson, 3 to 8 inches of snow is expected through Wednesday afternoon, with the highest totals from Moose to Moran Junction. Snow will begin Tuesday morning, switch to rain by afternoon, then change back to snow Wednesday as colder air returns. Wind gusts will reach 30 mph Tuesday and increase to 45 mph Wednesday.
Drivers should delay non-essential mountain travel, carry winter survival kits and check wyoroad.info before departure. Hazardous conditions will persist through late Wednesday afternoon, and additional advisories remain possible if snowfall intensifies.
