A late-season snowstorm is set to bring significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions to the Rocky Mountains on May 4, 2026. Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for parts of Wyoming and Colorado.
Forecasts predict snowfall totals of 10 to 24 inches across the Front Range foothills and Rocky Mountain National Park. Travel could be very difficult to impossible at times, especially late Tuesday.
I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie is expected to receive 8 to 16 inches of snow from Monday night through Wednesday noon. A separate Winter Storm Warning covers Arlington and Elk Mountain along I-80, predicting 5 to 10 inches of snow.
Heavy snow will create whiteout conditions with wind gusts up to 45 mph. Cheyenne could see between 4 and 8 inches of total snow accumulation through Wednesday.
The storm is expected to exit the area by Wednesday afternoon, leading to warmer conditions returning on Thursday. The historic problem spot remains the stretch west of Rawlins toward Bitter Creek and the Continental Divide, where drift heights have hit four feet in past storms.
The higher elevations could see more than 18 inches of snow in some areas. Heavy snow is expected across the central Rockies as colder air filters in behind the front.
This weather event coincides with Cinco de Mayo celebrations, likely impacting travel plans for many. Residents are advised to stay updated on local weather reports and prepare for hazardous conditions.
