Wyoming – Snow begins building rapidly across western mountain corridors by midday, with visibility dropping and winds whipping across high passes, creating dangerous travel within hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect at noon and runs through 11 p.m. Thursday, targeting Yellowstone National Park, the Tetons, and surrounding mountain ranges. Snow totals will reach 6 to 12 inches widely, with up to 18 inches in parts of Yellowstone and near 20 inches in the highest Teton peaks. Wind gusts will intensify between 30 and 70 mph, especially across exposed ridges.
Travel impacts will escalate quickly along key routes. Teton Pass and Togwotee Pass could see snow-covered roads and near-whiteout conditions by late afternoon. Along US 14/16/20 west of Cody and over Chief Joseph Pass, 1 to 4 inches of snow combined with strong winds may reduce visibility and create slick stretches.
Backcountry travel will become especially hazardous. Blowing snow and drifting will obscure trails and increase avalanche concerns at higher elevations. Even lower elevations near Mammoth and Cody may see light accumulations that freeze overnight.
Conditions remain active into Thursday evening before gradually easing. Winds will stay gusty even as snowfall tapers, keeping travel difficult longer than snowfall alone would suggest.
If you must travel, carry winter gear, check WYDOT road updates, and avoid high-elevation routes during peak snowfall. Delays and closures are possible with little notice.
