Jackson, Wyoming – Backcountry travel and high mountain passes could become extremely difficult within 24 hours as a powerful winter system targets northwest Wyoming with up to 2 feet of snow.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Monday night through Wednesday morning for Yellowstone National Park, the Absaroka Mountains, and the Teton, Gros Ventre, Salt River and Wyoming ranges. Snowfall totals of 12 to 18 inches are possible across much of the high terrain, with 18 to 24 inches in the Teton Range. The Pitchstone Plateau in southwest Yellowstone could see 12 to 18 inches, while Mammoth and Lamar Valley may receive 1 to 4 inches.
Winds will add to the impact. West winds of 15 to 30 mph are expected in Yellowstone, with gusts up to 45 mph in the Tetons and Absarokas. A High Wind Watch is also in place for parts of the Absaroka Range.
Heavy snowfall rates and blowing snow could reduce visibility and make mountain travel hazardous, especially Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning. Anyone planning backcountry trips should finalize preparations now and monitor forecast updates as warnings may be issued.
