Stranded motorists advised to shelter in their vehicle
by Wyoming Highway Patrol
October 4, 2013
Cheyenne, Friday, Oct. 4, 2013 – High winds, heavy snowfall and blowing and drifting snow have created whiteout conditions in north central and eastern Wyoming creating hazardous conditions for motorists. Many roadways in that area of the State remain closed at this time and are impassable.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Dispatchers have been in contact via cell phone with stranded motorists who have been stranded on Interstate 25 north of Casper, WYO 387 between Wright and Midwest and on US 85 north of Lusk.
Troopers and WYDOT personnel attempting to rescue stranded motorists are encountering snow drifts approximately 4 feet high on some highways. It is a slow process as the snow plows are becoming stuck in the deep heavy snow.
Troopers accompanied by Sheriff Deputies in four-wheel drive vehicles and WYDOT snow plows have been unable to reach some motorists for over eight hours, however, are still attempting to reach them.
Rescued motorists in the Midwest area are being transported to a church in that town for shelter.
Motorists stranded by Wyoming's winter weather should stay with their vehicles and not try to walk for help. Travelers should also shelter in towns rather than stop and park on the roadway at a road closed gate.
If you become stranded in your vehicle on the highway we suggest you leave your dome light on inside your vehicle, make sure your exhaust remains unclogged from built up snow and crack your window slightly for fresh air.
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