Cheyenne, WY – Strong autumn winds are expected to whip across southeast Wyoming late Saturday night through Sunday afternoon, prompting a High Wind Watch for multiple mountain ranges and foothill areas, including several major highway corridors.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, gusts could reach 65 mph in the North and South Laramie Ranges, the Snowy Range Foothills, and along Interstates 80 and 25 near Arlington, Elk Mountain, Bordeaux, Vedauwoo, and Buford. The most intense winds are likely from pre-dawn Sunday through early afternoon as a powerful upper-level disturbance sweeps across the region.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation warns that strong crosswinds may make travel extremely hazardous for lightweight or high-profile vehicles, including RVs and semis. The I-80 Summit between Cheyenne and Laramie and stretches of I-25 near Wheatland and Chugwater could see dangerous wind gusts and blowing debris.
Residents and travelers are advised to secure loose outdoor items, delay non-essential travel through high passes, and monitor updated statements as the watch may be upgraded to a High Wind Warning if confidence increases.
Conditions will gradually improve Sunday evening as winds ease west to east. Cooler, calmer weather will settle in early next week under clearer skies.
