Despite Snow, Drought Persists for Natrona County and Throughout Wyoming

Despite heavy snow in recent weeks throughout much of Wyoming, officials say the state remains extremely dry.

According to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s U.S. Drought Monitor, all of Wyoming is experiencing drought of some form. Over 30 percent of the state is experiencing severe drought.

Natrona County emergency manager Lt. Stew Anderson says conditions in central Wyoming have improved, but not by much.

“A couple of months ago, we were looking at the possibility of no moisture,” Anderson said. “However, the drought is persistent and does continue – you’ve got to remember, we’ve been in several years of drought, so we’re going to need several years of good moisture to get out of that drought.”

Anderson says no fire restrictions are currently in place for Natrona County. He says that could change by summer, however.

“My guess is that sometime this summer, some type of fire restriction – especially if the dry conditions continue – will be in place.” Anderson said. “Obviously, it’s weather dependent and, obviously, moisture dependent.”

The National Weather Service says heavy snow is expected in Wyoming again this week. A winter storm watch is currently in effect through Wednesday for the Cheyenne and Laramie areas.

Snow is also expected through Wednesday for central Wyoming.