High Wind — Absaroka Mountains, Wyoming

2021-01-13 · Absaroka Mountains, Wyoming

Event narrative

High winds occurred in the Absarokas. A maximum wind gust of 83 mph was reported along the Chief Joseph Highway.

Wider weather episode

A strong trough moved across Wyoming. At the same time, strong mid level winds and favorable jet dynamics brought high winds to many parts of western and central Wyoming. The highest wind gust reported was 101 mph at the weather sensor at Red Canyon along Highway 28 in the Wind River Mountains. In the lower elevations, some of the more notable gusts included 70 mph at Buffalo, Wyoming, 68 mph at Riverton, Wyoming and 68 mph near Casper, Wyoming. The strong winds caused the closure of many roads to high profile vehicles during the height of the winds.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 935777. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.