Major winter storm on the way
December 15, 2006
A major winter storm is beginning to develop for portions of central and southern Wyoming later this evening through Sunday, according to an advisory from the National Weather Service out of Riverton.
A Snow Advisory is in effect for the Upper Green River Basin, including LaBarge, Farson and Big Piney from 8:00 pm Saturday evening until 5:00 pm Sunday, December 16. The storm will also impact the Kemmerer and Cokeville areas.
Snow is expected to continue through Sunday with 3 to 6 inches expected, heavier in the southern end of the valley. Strong winds will create significant blowing and drifting snow will create severe driving conditions and wind chill factors of 10 to 20 below zero. Travel along Highway 28 from South Pass through Farson, and Highway 189 towards LaBarge could become quite treacherous, according to the NWS.
The storm will impact much of the area from Sweetwater County northeast to Casper, including South Pass. Areas of strong northeast winds may severely impact travel along Interstate 80 between Wamsutter and Little America, and Highway 28 over South Pass later Saturday evening through Sunday. Strong winds may make travel very hazardous or impossible. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Rock Springs, Green River, Wamsutter, Flaming Gorge, East Sweetwater County from 8:00 pm Saturday night until 5:00 pm Sunday.
Holiday travelers are advised to listen for the latest forecast on this winter storm and take appropriate precautions. Travelers are advised to use caution while driving and check road conditions before venturing out. Conditions will worsen by later Saturday evening as the heaviest snow and wind develops. The heavy snow will cross over to the eastern side of the Continental Divide and impact the Riverton, Lander and Casper area on Sunday dropping from 3-8 inches of snow. Strong winds will create hazardous driving conditions there with blowing and drifting snow and limited visibilities.
The longer range forecast of Sunday and Monday is for very cold temperatures to settle in the region with daytime lows plummeting to -10 to -20 below zero Sunday and Monday night. Prepare for much colder temperatures through the end of the weekened.
Road condition reports are available from the Wyoming Department of Transportation by dialing 511 in most Wyoming locations. Otherwise, dial: (888) 996-7623, (888) WYO-ROAD or going online to: http://map.wyoroad.info/
Related Links:
National Weather Service
Western Wyoming Road Condition Report
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