Story By: Spencer Porden
SHERIDAN, WY — A severe winter storm making its way towards Northeasten Wyoming is expected to impact travel through Thursday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) and WYDOT.
The National Weather Service in Billings issued the Blizzard warning on Wednesday, effective at 6 A.M. until Noon on Thursday. Meteroloists are calling for 4-8 inches of snow for Sheridan and the surrounding area, with Story expecting as much as a foot.
Along with the snow conditions, winds as strong as 50 mph are expected on Wednesday afternoon. A news release from the NWS stated, “Although snow will quickly end after midnight tonight, winds will be slower to weaken, and roads could remain closed through midday Thursday.” The NWS also said “Power outages are a good bet.”
WYDOT and the NWS are urging motorists to avoid travel if at all possible. If travel is necessary, WYDOT reminds to keep a winter survival kit in all vehicles, and if a vehicle does become stranded, to remain inside and wait for assistance. As of 9:15 A.M. on Wednesday, I-25 between Buffalo and Casper remained closed due to winter conditions, with no estimated re-opening time.
With warmer temperatures predicted immediately after the storm, the NWS is also warning of potential flooding in the area. According to their Hydrologic Outlook, the NWS stated “With the ground frozen across the area, this melt water will not be able to soak in and will run off. Water flowing overland and accumulating in low lying areas may result in low land flooding, water on roadways, and basement flooding.”
Big Horn Mountain Radio Network is monitoring this storm and will keep information up-to-date as it occurs. You can follow updates on any of our radio stations (KIX 96.5, 98.3 The Peak, 92.7 The X, or 1450 KBBS), online, or on our Facebook page.
