RIVERTON, Wyo. – Wyoming skies may deliver a rare double threat tonight: elevated fire danger on the ground and a possible Northern Lights show overhead. Drivers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts should prepare for both smoke impacts and changing night skies through Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, southern portions and central basins face critical fire weather conditions through tonight, with light winds fanning dry fuels. Meanwhile, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center reports a strong coronal mass ejection is sparking geomagnetic storm conditions that could push the aurora south into Wyoming skies.
Communities along U.S. Highway 26 and I-25 may experience hazy travel conditions through Monday evening, followed by clearer skies overnight—ideal for aurora viewing if clouds stay limited. Casper, Riverton, and Rock Springs residents should keep an eye north after midnight for a green glow.
Local agencies urge residents to avoid burning, keep vehicles off dry grass, and limit sparks from outdoor equipment. Those traveling late tonight should remain alert for reduced visibility due to lingering haze. For skywatchers, the best chances to see aurora displays come between midnight and dawn Tuesday.
Conditions remain dry and warm into midweek, with storms returning by Saturday. More weather updates and advisories are expected as the week unfolds.
Five-Day Forecast for Riverton, WY
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 88°F. Calm morning winds, shifting north 5–7 mph in the afternoon.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 84°F. Light northeast winds. Night low around 51°F.
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 85°F. Night partly cloudy, low near 51°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 81°F. Night mostly clear, low near 50°F.
- Saturday: Slight chance of showers and storms. High near 85°F. Night chance of storms, low near 52°F.
