Jackson, Wyoming – A powerful spring snowstorm could shut down mountain travel and create whiteout conditions across parts of Wyoming and Montana starting Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, Billings, and Great Falls, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Wednesday evening through late Thursday night for Yellowstone National Park, the Teton and Absaroka ranges, and surrounding areas in southwest Montana. Snowfall totals are expected to reach 9 to 15 inches in many areas, with up to 18 inches possible in the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains above 9,000 feet.
Wind gusts between 45 and 60 mph will combine with heavy snow to create blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, especially across Teton Pass, Raynolds Pass, and Targhee Pass. Travel could become very difficult or impossible at times, with chain restrictions likely and backcountry conditions turning dangerous.
Impacts extend to key مناطق including Jackson, West Yellowstone, Big Sky, and Cooke City, where rapidly changing conditions may affect both residents and tourist traffic entering national parks.
Residents and travelers should prepare for winter driving conditions, delay non-essential travel, and ensure emergency kits are stocked. This storm system remains under close monitoring, and warnings could be upgraded as confidence in snowfall totals increases through Thursday night.
