If you’re planning to drive through Wyoming’s Snowy Range in the next few days, you might want to rethink your plans. A strong winter storm is moving in, bringing up to a foot of snow and powerful winds that could make roads nearly impossible to navigate.
With blowing snow, icy conditions, and whiteout visibility expected, travel could become extremely dangerous, especially on Interstate 80.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
What’s Coming & When?
Thursday, February 13: The Calm Before the Storm
- High: 28°F
- Low: 27°F
- Conditions: Mostly clear in the morning, but turning cloudy and breezy later
Thursday will start off quiet and cold, but don’t get too comfortable—winds will start picking up, setting the stage for much rougher conditions ahead.
Friday, February 14: The Snow Starts Falling
- High: 37°F
- Low: 20°F
- Conditions: Cloudy, breezy, with light snow possible
Valentine’s Day might feel relatively mild compared to what’s coming next. Light snow could begin in the morning, but the real trouble arrives later. Winds will pick up speed, blowing snow across roads and reducing visibility.
Saturday, February 15: The Worst of the Storm Hits
- High: 28°F
- Low: 14°F
- Conditions: Heavy snow in the morning, strong winds in the afternoon
Saturday will be the most dangerous travel day of the weekend. Snow will pile up fast—some areas could see up to a foot. But the bigger concern? The wind. Blowing snow could create whiteout conditions, making it nearly impossible to see on the roads.
If you’re traveling through the Snowy Range or along I-80, you’ll need to be extremely cautious—or better yet, delay your trip.
Travel Advisory & Road Closures
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is already warning drivers about hazardous conditions, especially on Interstate 80.
- I-80 from Arlington to Exit 279 (Cooper Cove Road) is extremely dangerous, with slick roads, high winds, and blowing snow.
- Blow-over risk is high: WYDOT has banned lightweight, high-profile vehicles under 40,000 GVW from this section of I-80 due to dangerous wind gusts.
- Limited visibility expected: Even if the snow has stopped, strong winds can blow snow back onto roadways, creating unexpected icy patches and whiteout conditions.
If you must drive, expect delays, slow speeds, and treacherous conditions.
How to Stay Safe in This Storm
✔ Check Road Conditions Before You Travel – WYDOT updates road conditions regularly at wyoroad.info. Don’t leave without checking first.
✔ Delay Travel If You Can – If the forecast worsens, waiting it out could be your safest option.
✔ Pack an Emergency Kit – If you absolutely must drive, bring extra blankets, food, water, and a fully charged phone. Getting stranded in Wyoming’s winter conditions is no joke.
✔ Watch for Blowing Snow & Ice – Even if roads look clear, wind gusts can create sudden whiteouts and ice patches.
✔ Drive Cautiously – If you have to be on the road, slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility.
If you’re traveling in Wyoming’s Snowy Range or along I-80 this weekend, be prepared for dangerous conditions. With up to a foot of snow and strong winds creating whiteout visibility, travel could be extremely difficult.
