Climate Wyoming

Winter Storm Watch Issued for Absaroka and Bighorn Mountains with Up to 2 Feet of Snow Expected

Winter Storm Watch Issued for Absaroka and Bighorn Mountains with Up to 2 Feet of Snow Expected
WJAR
  • PublishedMay 12, 2025

A significant late-season snowstorm is forecast to impact parts of northern Wyoming and southern Montana beginning Tuesday night, prompting Winter Storm Watches across the Absaroka and Bighorn mountain ranges, Country Herald reports.

According to the National Weather Service offices in Riverton, WY, and Billings, MT, heavy snowfall is expected to begin late Tuesday and continue through Thursday night. Areas above 8,000 feet, including regions near Cooke City, Story, and Burgess Junction, could see up to 24 inches of snow, with wind gusts reaching 45 mph. The combination of snow and strong winds may lead to whiteout conditions and hazardous travel.

In Wyoming, travel through mountainous routes such as US Highway 14 and backcountry access points in the Absaroka and Bighorn Mountains may become dangerous. In Montana, snow removal efforts on the Beartooth Highway could be delayed or interrupted, affecting local access.

Officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid non-essential travel in high-elevation areas until the storm passes. Those who must venture out are advised to carry winter survival kits and to monitor road conditions via Wyoming’s wyoroad.info or the Montana Department of Transportation’s road report services.

The Winter Storm Watch remains in effect through Thursday night, with the potential for additional warnings as the storm progresses. Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to stay updated on evolving conditions.

Joe Yans

Joe Yans is a 25-year-old journalist and interviewer based in Cheyenne, Wyoming. As a local news correspondent and an opinion section interviewer for Wyoming Star, Joe has covered a wide range of critical topics, including the Israel-Palestine war, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and the 2025 LA wildfires. Beyond reporting, Joe has conducted in-depth interviews with prominent scholars from top US and international universities, bringing expert perspectives to complex global and domestic issues.