CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A widespread high-wind event is battering southern Wyoming and parts of central Montana Sunday, with damaging gusts expected to continue through early Monday. The National Weather Service offices in Cheyenne, Riverton, and Great Falls have issued multiple High Wind Warnings for mountain ranges, foothills, and high plains, where gusts of 60 to 75 mph could cause significant travel hazards.
According to the Weather Service, the strongest winds will impact the South Laramie Range and Foothills, including Interstate 80 between Laramie and Cheyenne, and the North Snowy Range Foothills near Arlington and Elk Mountain. Winds of 30 to 40 mph, gusting to 65 mph, will persist through tonight. Farther north, Rawlins, Jeffrey City, and Casper are also under warnings for gusts up to 60 mph. In Montana, the Rocky Mountain Front and Great Falls area could see gusts near 75 mph through Sunday evening.
Transportation officials warned that crosswinds may overturn lightweight or high-profile vehicles, including campers and tractor-trailers, along open highway stretches. Drivers are urged to delay unnecessary travel, especially across I-80, I-25, and U.S. 287. Loose outdoor objects should be secured to prevent damage.
According to the National Weather Service, winds will gradually subside Monday afternoon, though localized gusts may linger east of the Continental Divide. Cooler, calmer fall weather returns midweek.
