RIVERTON, Wyo. – A sharp Fall chill is returning to Wyoming just as residents wrap up Columbus Day plans and kids head back to school. After a mild and breezy holiday Monday, a Freeze Watch remains in effect through early Tuesday, with temperatures expected to plunge into the 20s west of the Continental Divide.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, strong gusts up to 45 mph will ease by midday Sunday, but a cold front will settle in early this week. Residents across Fremont, Natrona, and Hot Springs Counties should prepare for freezing mornings and renewed snow chances over mountain passes. The cold snap could affect travel along I-25, U.S. 26, and Teton Pass, especially for early commuters or school buses Tuesday.
Meteorologists advise protecting outdoor plants, draining garden hoses, and ensuring pets and livestock have shelter from the chill. Drivers are urged to watch for slick spots in shaded valleys as temperatures dip below freezing by Tuesday morning.
By midweek, warmer afternoons will return briefly, though gusty winds are expected Wednesday as another system approaches. Thursday and Friday should trend mostly sunny with highs in the mid-50s, providing a crisp backdrop for fall activities like pumpkin patch visits and scenic leaf viewing across the Wind River Range.
Five-Day Forecast for Riverton, WY:
Sun: 59/28 – Sunny, breezy; west winds easing late afternoon.
Mon (Columbus Day): 59/35 – Increasing clouds; cooler north breeze.
Tue: 65/40 – Mostly sunny; frost early; breezy afternoon.
Wed: 65/33 – Partly cloudy; gusty winds; slight chance of showers.
Thu: 57/30 – Sunny and crisp; calm winds and ideal for outdoor plans.
