Colorado And Wyoming Travel Alert: New Winter Storm Warning Brings Twelve–Eighteen Inches of Snow and Sixty mph Winds, Disrupting Holiday Travel

Published on December 21, 2025

Residents and travelers across the Salt River and Wyoming Ranges in Wyoming have been placed under a Winter Storm Warning by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Riverton, as a significant winter storm system approaches the region with heavy snow and high winds that could substantially disrupt travel and local activities through Monday morning, December 22, 2025. This advisory comes at a critical time when many are on the move during the holiday season, making awareness and preparation essential for safety amid winter weather hazards.

According to official NWS guidance, snow accumulations of 12 to 18 inches are anticipated in the mountains, accompanied by strong wind gusts up to 60 mph. These conditions are expected to result in very difficult travel, particularly over Salt River Pass, a key mountain route that connects central and western parts of the state.

What the Winter Storm Warning Means for Travelers

A Winter Storm Warning is issued by the National Weather Service when heavy snow, sleet, or ice is expected to create hazardous travel conditions and significant impacts on daily activities. These warnings convey that severe winter weather is imminent or occurring, and that travel could become dangerous or impossible without proper preparation.

In the current situation, official forecasts indicate that:

• Heavy snow of 12–18 inches is likely across the higher elevations of the Salt River and Wyoming Ranges through early Monday.
• Wind gusts could reach 60 mph, leading to blowing snow and drastically reduced visibility.
• Travel over mountain passes — especially Salt River Pass and nearby roadways — could be very difficult or temporarily impossible due to snowdrifts and icy conditions.

Official Travel Advisory and Safety Recommendations

The NWS and state transportation officials have stressed that travelers in the impacted regions should reconsider travel plans if possible. If travel is necessary, authorities recommend:

• Checking road conditions before departure, including via the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s road status service.
• Carrying emergency supplies in vehicles, such as extra food, water, warm clothing, flashlights, blankets, and a charged mobile phone.
• Allowing extra travel time and driving at reduced speeds to account for low visibility and snow‑packed roads.
• Avoiding unnecessary travel especially overnight or until conditions improve and authorities confirm safe roadways.

These recommendations align with general winter travel safety guidance issued by the National Weather Service and state transportation agencies, which emphasize preparation and caution during severe winter weather events.

How the Weather System Is Evolving

Meteorological models show that this winter storm is part of a larger North American storm complex affecting the Western United States and the northern Rockies around late December 2025, with heavy snow and strong wind impacts reported in several areas. Wind gusts above 60 mph and significant precipitation have already been observed across parts of the northern Rockies as the system moves through.

For Wyoming, the NWS Riverton forecast indicates that this system will bring persistent snowfall and high winds for an extended period. Snow accumulation totals could vary, with higher elevations receiving even greater totals and the potential for hazardous blizzard‑like conditions where wind and snow combine to drastically cut visibility.

Community and Transportation Impacts

Highways such as U.S. Routes and state roads that traverse the Salt River and Wyoming Ranges are at increased risk of closures or travel advisories due to snow and drifting conditions. Local authorities are coordinating with the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) to monitor weather conditions and deploy snow‑removal crews as needed, but motorists are urged to anticipate delays or restricted travel in affected corridors.

Due to strong wind gusts, blowing snow may also lead to whiteout conditions at times, especially on elevated terrain — a factor that greatly increases the risk for high‑speed collisions and highway shutdowns. Travelers should be especially cautious near ridge lines and exposed passes.

Tips for Travelers Amid a Winter Storm Warning

For residents and tourists alike planning travel in central and western Wyoming, the following steps can improve safety:

• Plan ahead: Check travel routes early and consider postponing non‑essential trips until after the storm passes.
• Stay informed: Visit the National Weather Service’s official winter weather page and WYDOT road status to receive official updates.
• Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your car is equipped with winter tires, a full tank of gas, and an emergency kit.
• Know when to stop: If conditions worsen, find a safe place to wait it out rather than risk continuing in whiteout or icy conditions.

These precautions are consistent with official safety guidelines for weather emergencies and can significantly improve outcomes during severe winter events.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect Through Monday

The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 5 a.m. MST on December 22, though conditions may begin to improve later Sunday night as snow tapers and winds ease. However, lingering slick roads and sub‑freezing temperatures could continue affecting travel well into Monday.

As with all severe winter weather events, there is the possibility of further updates or extensions to the warning if conditions persist, so travelers are advised to check official sources frequently and plan accordingly.

Conclusion: Safety First During Holiday Travel

As the holiday weekend approaches, the Winter Storm Warning issued by the National Weather Service in Riverton highlights the importance of staying informed and prepared when weather hazards are forecast to affect travel in mountainous regions like the Salt River and Wyoming Ranges. With snowfall measured in feet and winds capable of producing blinding snow drifts, local authorities and travel experts urge caution, advance planning, and readiness for rapidly changing conditions. Responsible travel choices and emergency preparedness can make all the difference in navigating this winter storm safely