GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) — Things are looking up for Wyoming's coal mining industry, if only temporarily.

Powder River Basin coal mines report a 6% increase in production over the first half of 2021 compared to the same period last year.

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The coronavirus pandemic lessened electricity use, leading to dramatically less demand for coal in 2020. The Gillette News Record reports thermal coal production fell by over 22% last year.

Economist Robert Godby at the University of Wyoming says higher gas prices are now helping the coal industry even more than expected. Godby says the boost for coal could continue into a “good chunk” of 2022.

Five Of The Coldest Days in Wyoming History

Did you know that four of the 10 coldest temperatures ever recorded in the continental United States were here in Wyoming?
Winter in Wyoming can be a yo-yo. Really nice, and then really cold. Here's a frigid look back at some of the coldest days in the history of the Cowboy State.

The Hottest and Coldest Days in Wyoming

 

 

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