Centennial, Wyoming – Travel across the Sierra Madre and Snowy Range could become impossible after 2 p.m. Tuesday as up to 16 inches of snow and wind gusts near 70 mph trigger whiteout conditions through Wednesday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 2 p.m. Tuesday until 5 p.m. Wednesday for the Sierra Madre Range and Snowy Range, including areas near Centennial and Albany. Forecasters expect 8 to 16 inches of accumulation, with isolated totals near 20 inches above 10,000 feet. Winds gusting to 70 mph will produce intense blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
High mountain routes, including Wyoming Highway 130 through the Snowy Range, may see rapid deterioration by late afternoon Tuesday. Strong crosswinds could drift snow across exposed passes, stranding motorists and halting travel. Backcountry recreation will turn hazardous, with hunters, hikers and snowmobilers at risk of becoming disoriented in near-zero visibility.
Officials urge travelers to delay mountain travel, carry winter survival gear and monitor Wyoming 511 for road closures. Conditions will remain dangerous into Wednesday afternoon, and additional advisories remain possible if snowfall rates intensify.
