RIVERTON, Wyoming – Dawn breaks quietly across the Wind River Valley, but higher peaks west of town are already dusted white. A new storm system crossing the state this morning will bring snow to the western mountains and powerful winds to the open plains — a clear sign that winter is stepping closer.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, light snow will develop along and west of the Continental Divide through midday, with accumulations of 3 to 6 inches likely near Teton and Togwotee Passes. Valleys from Jackson to Dubois could see slushy coatings, while areas farther east, including Riverton and Lander, remain mostly dry but blustery. Gusts up to 40 mph may impact travel along U.S. 287, South Pass, and I-80 this afternoon.
Temperatures will hover near 50°F before falling sharply behind the front Friday night. Saturday turns cooler, with highs in the 40s and calmer winds by evening. The air will stay crisp and clear through Sunday, setting up a calm stretch early next week — perfect for early holiday travel or outdoor work before stronger fronts return later in November.
Those heading into mountain passes should prepare for changing visibility, gusty crosswinds, and slick stretches above 8,000 feet. High-profile vehicles are especially vulnerable in open areas across central Wyoming.
For now, the system looks modest — more a “winter tease” than a true storm — but it reinforces the shift toward colder, windier November weather that will deepen across the Rockies before Thanksgiving.
Five-Day Forecast for Riverton, WY:
Fri: 58/25 – Partly sunny; breezy with gusts to 30 mph.
Sat: 47/19 – Sunny; cooler, light north wind.
Sun: 47/24 – Mostly sunny; calm afternoon.
Mon: 57/32 – Partly sunny; mild breeze.
Tue (Veterans Day): 64/40 – Sunny; pleasant, late-fall warmth returns.
