JACKSON, Wyo. — Storm’s coming!
The National Weather Service’s Riverton, WY, office (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning affecting the Teton and Gros Ventre ranges, along with the valley floor. Heavy snow is possible from 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, until 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15.
According to the NWS, the Tetons could see between 1 and 2 feet of snow, which could amount to between 4 and 9 inches of snow in Jackson. Higher elevations of the Tetons could end up seeing as many as 30 inches, the warning reads. The Gros Ventres could see over a foot of snow, as many as 18 inches.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible, especially for Teton Pass where more than a foot is likely (75 percent chance),” the weather alert reads. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.”
Buckrail Meteorologist Alan Smith in his weekly forecast predicted that Saturday evening snowfall is likely to be wetter and denser, followed by drier and more powdery flakes on Sunday.
Yellowstone National Park is also expected to see substantial snowfall. NWS is forecasting “total snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches expected near Old Faithful and accumulations of 1 to 3 inches expected near Mammoth.”
Eastern Idaho is under a related storm watch. The NWS’ Pocatello, ID, office shared the following infographic to illustrate the forthcoming precipitation.
Strong winds could also be a factor in this storm. NWS warns on its Facebook page that “wind gusting 15 to 25 mph will also occur with the heaviest snowfall, leading to blowing snow and localized whiteout conditions.”
Be sure to keep an eye on local weather resources as the storm develops. See Buckrail’s tips for winter driving here.
