High Winds Lead to Vehicle Restrictions on Interstates 80 and 25 in Southeast Wyoming

Strong winds reaching up to 70 miles per hour have prompted restrictions on sections of Interstates 80 and 25 in southeast Wyoming.

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) has closed these highways to light, high-profile vehicles due to an extreme blow-over risk.

Interstate Closures and Restrictions

• Interstate 25 is closed to light, high-profile vehicles under 5,000 pounds between the Colorado state line and Wheatland.

• Interstate 80 has restrictions for light, high-profile vehicles between Cheyenne and Rawlins:

  • Closed to vehicles under 5,000 pounds between Laramie and Rawlins

  • Closed to vehicles under 40,000 pounds between Cheyenne and Laramie

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Cheyenne has issued High Wind Warnings for the region, including Cheyenne and the I-80 summit. Wind gusts could reach dangerous speeds, creating hazardous driving conditions.

Upcoming Weather Conditions

• Monday and Tuesday: Highs in the low to mid-60s, with gusts around 45 mph on Monday, decreasing to 23 mph on Tuesday.

• Wednesday and Thursday: Warmer temperatures reaching the 70s, with gusts up to 41 mph.

• Friday and Saturday: Possible rain showers, with highs in the 50s and 60s. Overnight temperatures may bring light mixed snow in some areas.

Wyoming is known for its powerful wind gusts, with some areas acting as natural wind tunnels. The strongest recorded gust in the state was 128 mph in Clark (2022), though meteorologists suggest that even stronger gusts may occur in areas without monitoring equipment.

Drivers are advised to check WYDOT’s Road and Travel website for real-time updates before heading out.

With input from KGAB AM 650, Cowboy State Daily, and Oil City News.