CASPER, WYOMING — A significant winter storm has closed more than 200 miles of Interstate 80 across southern Wyoming on Monday, with no estimated reopening time for much of the corridor and a Blizzard Warning issued for part of the interstate by the National Weather Service’s Cheyenne office.
As of 11:15 a.m. Monday, I-80 is closed in both directions between Rock Springs and Laramie. The Wyoming Department of Transportation estimates the stretch between Rawlins and Rock Springs could reopen between 10 p.m. Monday and midnight, while the Rawlins to Laramie stretch and the westbound closure between Cheyenne and Laramie are not expected to reopen until between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. Tuesday, May 19.
Additional closures include U.S. Highway 30 between Rock Springs and Laramie, Wyoming Highway 789 from Rawlins to Muddy Gap, U.S. 287 between Muddy Gap and Laramie, and Casper Mountain Road. WYDOT has issued a no unnecessary travel warning between Casper and Muddy Gap. Interstate 25 was listed as wet with rain but remained open as of late Monday morning.
Weather Conditions
The National Weather Service in Riverton said Natrona County is under a winter storm warning through 6 p.m. Monday, with up to 8 inches of snow possible at higher elevations and wind gusts up to 40 mph. Temperatures are expected to clear by Tuesday with regional highs returning to the upper 40s.
Carbon County Emergency Response
Carbon County is experiencing prolonged power outages and limited transportation capability due to the storm’s intensity. Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken has established an incident command post to coordinate responses for affected residents and drivers.
“Please note that the hospital is open and available for anyone who needs oxygen or power for a medical device. Please know we are here to support your medical needs and provide assistance during this time,” Bakken said. Carbon County Search and Rescue volunteers are standing by to help transport residents to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County if needed. Anyone requiring transport should contact the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office or Rawlins Police Department.
Drivers are urged to check current road conditions at wyoroad.info before traveling.
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