The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for much of northern, northwestern and central Wyoming, saying significant snow totals could result as a cold front moves across the region.

In the northeast Bighorn Mountains, 10-14 inches of snow could pile up, with winds gusting up to 45 mph possibly creating blowing and drifting snow from late Tuesday night through Thursday morning. That would make for very difficult or impossible travel in the area, including along US Highway 14.

The NWS predicts heavy snow accumulating 3-6 inches in eastern portions of the Bighorn Basin and Johnson County. The Cody Foothills and other portions of the Bighorn Mountains could see 5-10 inches of snow, and 6-12 inches are possible for the Absaroka Mountains and Yellowstone National Park.

In Sheridan, Dayton, Ranchester, Big Horn and Story, 5-10 inches of snow accumulation is possible, with the highest totals along the foothills. Winds could gust up to 40 mph, creating blowing and drifting snow.

Generally, the NWS is warning of very difficult travel in the area. Anyone who has plans to hunt or otherwise enjoy the outdoors should prepare accordingly.

The weather system will begin to impact northwest Wyoming before dawn Wednesday and spread to the rest of northern Wyoming by sunrise, according to the winter storm watch issued early Monday.

"The cold front will rapidly push southward through the day, with strong north winds and rapidly dropping temperatures occurring in its wake," the NWS said.

For the latest road conditions, call 511, visit WyoRoad.info or download the Wyoming 511 app.

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