Weather Service: More Snow Headed for Western Wyoming Mountains
The National Weather Service is warning of another powerful snowstorm headed for the western Wyoming mountains.
According to a winter storm watch issued Thursday morning, as much of two feet of snowfall is expected across the Absaroka Mountains, as well as the western and southeastern Bighorn Mountains. Three feet of snow is expected in the Tetons.
The snow which has been falling since Wednesday morning is set to wind down Thursday afternoon, but another, more powerful snowstorm is set to hit the western mountains Friday morning and continue through Saturday evening.
Strong westerly winds will likely make for considerable blowing and drifting snow, according to the NWS. Travel over mountain passes, including Teton and Togwotee, will likely be difficult or impossible.
In the Absarokas, eight to 16 inches of snow has already fallen, with another three to five inches expected. The NWS predicts total snow accumulations of 11-21 inches in the area, with localized amounts possible up to 29 inches.
Heavy snow is expected in the Bighorns, and should make for difficult travel conditions. Total snow accumulations of six to 12 inches are forecast, and most of that has already fallen.
Some 15-18 inches are expected over the highest elevations in the Bighorns. However, Shell Creek at 9,500 feet has already received 20-22 inches of snow.
The National Weather Service also warns of significant reductions in visibility at times.
Anyone who must travel is advised to keep an extra flashlight, as well as food and water, inside their vehicle in case of an emergency.
The latest road conditions are available by calling 511, downloading the Wyoming 511 app for smartphones, or visiting wyoroad.info.