Jackson, WY – Wyoming’s high country is bracing for a major winter blast, with a Winter Storm Watch now in effect for the Teton, Gros Ventre, Wind River, and Salt River Ranges from late Monday night through Wednesday afternoon. Forecasters warn that 8 to 18 inches of snow could pile up across the mountains, with wind gusts up to 50 mph creating whiteout conditions at times.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, an early round of light snow tapers off this morning before a powerful Pacific system sweeps in late tonight. Snow intensifies rapidly by Tuesday morning, spreading across western Wyoming and continuing through Wednesday afternoon. The heaviest snowfall rates are expected Tuesday evening into early Wednesday, when visibility may drop to near zero along Teton and Togwotee Passes.
Travel will likely become dangerous to impossible across higher elevations, including US-26, WY-22, and sections of I-80 west of Rawlins. Strong winds will worsen drifting and blowing snow, particularly in open stretches and mountain passes.
Motorists are urged to delay nonessential travel and monitor WYDOT road conditions at wyoroad.info.
By Wednesday night, snow gradually subsides, leaving behind deep drifts and frigid air. Daytime highs will stay in the teens and 20s, with subzero wind chills in the early mornings. Looking ahead, long-range models hint at continued snow chances Dec 11–17, as active Pacific flow keeps the northern Rockies locked in winter mode.
