Snow, Winds Of Up To 80 MPH Expected In SE Wyoming Next Few Days
Southeast Wyoming is bracing for a blast of winter weather followed by very strong winds, according to the Cheyenne Office of the National Weather Service.
The agency has issued a Winter Weather Advisory starting today for much of the region, including Laramie, Rawlins, and Casper. 3-5 inches of snow is expected at lower elevations under that advisory, with up to a foot of snow possible at higher elevations.
Cheyenne was not under the Winter Weather Advisory, but could still receive 2-4 inches of snow, according to the agency. The advisory runs through 6 a.m. on Friday.
The agency posted this statement on its website:
Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across portions of southeast Wyoming, mainly west of I-25, today for light to moderate snowfall. Total accumulations of 3-5 inches are expected. Higher amounts are expected around 6-12 inches in the Snowy, Sierra Madres, and North Laramie Range, especially above 9000 feet elevation. Snow will continue to spread farther east towards the NE/WY border, especially late this afternoon and evening. 2-4 inches of snowfall is possible outside of the purple shaded areas, however locally heavier amounts will be possible with banded snowfall.
Following the cold front, strong winds will move into the area on Friday and Saturday.
According to a statement issued by the agency on Thursday morning:
''Sustained west winds of 30 to 45 mph with gusts of 45 to 65 mph for many areas. ➔ Wind Prone areas, Gap Wind areas, and Ridge Tops could have wind gusts upwards of 70-80 mph at times. ➔ Blowing snow possible near Arlington/Elk Mountain.''
– ''High Wind Watches have been issued across much of southeast Wyoming and portions of the Nebraska Panhandle. A fairly significant high wind event looks likely starting Friday afternoon for the wind-prone locations, becoming more widespread Saturday morning and afternoon. Stay safe, especially if travelling in a light, high profile vehicle."