Winter Storm — Sierra Madre Range, Wyoming

2023-10-11 to 2023-10-12 · Sierra Madre Range, Wyoming

Event narrative

Multiple SNOTEL observations in the Sierra Madre Range recorded estimated snowfall totals of 12+ inches. A maximum total of 16.8 inches was observed at the Blackhall Mountain SNOTEL (8 miles SW of Skyline) at an elevation of 9838 feet.

Wider weather episode

A strong low pressure system brought widespread snow and blowing snow to portions of southeast Wyoming, mainly along and west of the Laramie Range. Total snowfall accumulations of 3 to 6 inches were common for the lower elevations, with isolated maximum amounts of 6 to 10 inches over higher terrain. In the mountains, 1 to 2 feet of snow fell across the Snowy, Sierra Madre, and northern Laramie Ranges at elevations above 8000 feet. Dangerous winter conditions resulted in the closure of Interstate 80 between Laramie and Rawlins from the evening of 10/12 into the early morning hours on 10/13.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1137028. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.