by Riverton, Wyoming — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple winter storm alerts as a powerful system brings heavy snow and dangerous winds to Western Wyoming and surrounding regions through Monday. Forecasters warn that hazardous travel conditions could impact residents, tourists, and major mountain passes across the state.
Heavy Snow and Strong Winds Expected to Create Travel Hazards
Meteorologists say snow totals could reach 12 to 18 inches in some higher elevations, accompanied by wind gusts up to 60 mph, creating the potential for blizzard-like conditions.
Roads — especially mountain passes, bridges, and overpasses — are expected to become extremely slick, with possible whiteout visibility. Officials urge drivers to avoid unnecessary travel, and if driving is required, to slow down and keep emergency supplies such as food, water, and a flashlight in vehicles.
Where Snowfall Will Hit the Hardest
Winter storm warnings and advisories have been issued for multiple regions across the state:
Yellowstone National Park
- 6–12 inches expected across much of the park
- Southern Entrance could see up to 15 inches
- Wind gusts up to 45 mph, creating snowdrifts and risk of blocked roads
- Mammoth expected to see 1–3 inches
Absaroka Mountains
- 6–12 inches above 9,000 ft
- Winds potentially reaching 60 mph
- Dangerous conditions anticipated across high-alpine routes
Wind River Mountains (East & West)
- 12–18 inches above 10,000 ft
- 6–12 inches between 9,000–10,000 ft
- Union Pass: up to 8 inches
- South Pass: up to 4 inches
- Strong winds expected to exacerbate travel conditions
Teton & Gros Ventre Mountains
- Snow totals up to 18 inches
- Wind gusts up to 40 mph
- Teton Pass and Togwotee Pass could experience severe travel disruptions
Salt River & Wyoming Ranges
- 6–14 inches above 8,000 ft
- Lower elevations expected to see lesser totals, but still slick conditions
NWS Alerts and Public Messaging
In a public update, NWS Riverton posted on X:
“Heavy snow today to Monday over the western mountains. There is a Winter Storm Warning and a Winter Weather Advisory in effect. Expect gusty winds through Monday up to 40 to 50 mph, with locally higher winds possible.”
Another update from Odrimedia highlighted the alert for Yellowstone National Park, noting the potential for 6 to 12 inches of accumulation through October 27.
What Residents Should Expect Next
Forecasters caution that this winter weather system could expand into additional states and intensify in pockets of higher terrain. People are encouraged to:
- Monitor NWS alerts
- Limit travel, particularly during peak snowfall
- Prepare for possible delays, closures, and power issues in remote locations
The NWS continues to watch the storm closely and will update advisories as conditions evolve.
What Do You Think?
Will this early-season winter blast impact your travel or weekend plans in Wyoming? Share your thoughts, preparedness tips, or storm updates in the comments!
