Riverton, Wyo. – Strong afternoon winds are expected to stir up near-elevated fire weather conditions across central and western Wyoming Wednesday, stretching from Rock Springs to Casper and Buffalo. Gusts and low humidity could make conditions dry enough for quick fire spread before calmer weather returns overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, southwest winds will pick up through the afternoon as a dry air mass lingers over much of the state. Residents in open areas of Natrona, Fremont, and Sweetwater counties should use caution with outdoor burning and equipment that could spark fires.
Conditions will shift heading into the weekend as an incoming Pacific system increases precipitation chances from Thursday night through Sunday. The agency reports that rain is likely across lower elevations, while colder air in western mountains could bring the season’s first light snowfall by late Saturday or early Sunday.
Drivers in higher elevations, including the Wind River and Bighorn Mountains, may see slick roads if snow develops overnight. Daytime highs near 70°F will drop into the 50s by Sunday, with showers tapering by Monday morning.
Weather alerts remain in effect through the weekend, with updated advisories expected as the system approaches.