Residents and travelers in Teton, Fremont, and Park counties are being urged to exercise caution as a Winter Storm Warning has been declared from 6 AM on Wednesday, Oct 25, to 6 PM on Thursday, Oct 26. The National Weather Service in Riverton, Wyoming has forecast heavy snowfall with accumulations ranging between 6 to 12 inches for elevations above 7000 feet and 12 to 24 inches for those above 8000 feet. Isolated areas could even have higher accumulations.
- Winter Storm Warning
- Affected Counties: Fremont, Park, Teton in Wyoming.
- Warning Duration: 6 AM Wednesday, Oct 25 to 6 PM Thursday, Oct 26.
- Snowfall Estimates:
- 6 to 12 inches above 7000 feet elevation.
- 12 to 24 inches above 8000 feet elevation.
- Isolated areas may see even higher accumulations.
- Wind: Gusts up to 45 mph expected.
- Affected Areas: Yellowstone National Park, Absaroka Mountains, Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains.
- Peak Snowfall Time: Wednesday night into Thursday morning.
- Travel Impact: Difficulties expected, especially over Teton and Togwotee passes. Blowing snow to reduce visibility.
- Travel Advice: Carry extra flashlight, food, and water.
- Road Condition Updates: Call 5-1-1 for Wyoming.
High wind speeds, gusting up to 45 mph, are anticipated to accompany the snow, resulting in blowing snow and severely reduced visibility. Affected areas include Yellowstone National Park, the Absaroka Mountains, and both the Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains.
The most intense snowfall is expected to hit Wednesday night and continue into Thursday morning. Given these conditions, travel, especially over Teton and Togwotee passes, could be extremely challenging. Authorities advise those who must travel to be prepared with emergency essentials such as extra flashlights, food, and water. For up-to-date road conditions in Wyoming, residents and travelers can call 5-1-1.
Winter Driving Tips for Wyoming’s Mountains:
Be Prepared:
- Understand that winter storms can arise suddenly in Wyoming.
- Equip your vehicle for unexpected conditions.
Vehicle Maintenance:
- Inflate tires to the recommended pressure.
- Ensure brakes are functioning properly.
- Replace worn-out windshield wiper blades.
- Add windshield antifreeze to window cleaning fluid.
- Keep the fuel tank full.
- Regularly check all engine fluid levels.
- Ensure headlights, taillights, and turn signals work as they should.
Visibility:
- Clear all lights from ice and snow.
- Use low beams in blowing snow conditions.
- Always remove snow and ice from windows and mirrors before driving.
- Clean snow off shoes to avoid slippery accelerator and brake pedals.
Plan Your Trip:
- Check road and weather conditions via 511 or the 511 Travel Information Web page.
- Adjust your driving speed to match current conditions.
Safety First:
- Always buckle up before driving.
- Consider carrying a winter survival kit in your vehicle.
For More Information:
Check road and weather conditions before you leave by dialing 511 or going to the 511 Travel Information Web page .
Always buckle your seat belt before hitting the road, and once out on the highway, adjust your speed for conditions.
More winter driving tips and recommendations for a winter survival kit to carry in your vehicle are in WYDOT’s Winter Wheelin’ in Wyoming brochure.
