Cheyenne, Wyoming – High Wind Warnings have been issued across large portions of central and southern Wyoming, with dangerous southwest winds expected to impact travel from Wednesday evening through Thursday, according to the National Weather Service offices in Cheyenne and Riverton.
The warnings cover Central Carbon County, including Rawlins and Seminoe Dam, the Ferris, Seminoe, and Shirley Mountains, the North Snowy Range Foothills near Arlington and Elk Mountain along Interstate 80, Natrona County including Casper, the Green Mountains and Rattlesnake Range near Jeffrey City, the Wind River Mountains East, and Casper Mountain.
Forecasters expect sustained southwest winds of 25 to 50 mph, with widespread gusts between 60 and 75 mph. The strongest winds are forecast in the Wind River Mountains East, where gusts may peak near 75 mph, including over South Pass. Other areas, including Casper and Rawlins, may see gusts reaching 60 to 65 mph, with locally stronger winds possible in exposed locations.
According to the National Weather Service, the primary impacts will be to transportation. Strong crosswinds will create hazardous driving conditions for light-weight and high-profile vehicles such as campers, box trucks, and tractor trailers. Travel along Interstate 80 near Arlington and Elk Mountain is expected to be especially dangerous during peak wind periods.
Some areas will experience multiple warning periods, with winds briefly diminishing late Wednesday morning before increasing again overnight into Thursday. In mountain areas, periods of blowing snow may reduce visibility at times.
Residents and travelers are urged to secure loose outdoor objects and consider delaying travel if driving high-profile vehicles. Motorists should be prepared for sudden gusts, lane drift, and possible road restrictions during the warning period.
