Winter Storm Warnings Call for 24 Inches of Snow and 50 Mph Winds: 'Travel Could Become Nearly Impossible'

National Weather Service forecasters warned today that travel on Highway 14 through Burgess Junction in the Bighorn Mountains could be "nearly impossible" due to winter storm conditions. The stark warning comes as up to 24 inches of snow and 50 mph winds will hammer parts of Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.

Where 24 Inches of Snow and 50 Mph Winds Are Expected

On April 2, 2026, the National Weather Service issued a series of warnings about winter storm weather that is expected to affect parts of Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. Forecasters are calling for heavy snow and powerful winds to continue from Thursday through Friday. These conditions are likely to create challenges during the morning and evening commutes in the affected regions.

In the Bighorn Mountains region of Wyoming, snow accumulations of 10 to 20 inches and wind gusts reaching as high as 50 mph are expected. Due to that dangerous combination of fierce conditions, officials are predicting there may be serious travel problems on a major highway. "Travel on Highway 14 through Burgess Junction could become nearly impossible, due to snow, blowing and drifting snow, and poor visibility."

Other parts of the region could see even heavier snowfall totals. On the western slopes of the Teton mountains, meteorologists are calling for between 12 and 24 inches of snow. Idaho's Sawtooth/Stanley Basin, Frank Church Wilderness, Big Lost Highlands/Copper Basin, and Sun Valley Region will get hit with between 1 and 2 feet of snow at the highest elevations above 8,000 feet.

In several other regions across Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana, several inches of snow and powerful winds are expected. For example, in addition to 50 mph wind gusts being expected in the Bighorn Mountains, the same wind speeds are also being forecast for Montana's Judith Gap and many Idaho cities.

The winter storm warnings remind residents and travelers in the areas expected to be hit by those powerful wind gusts to be very cautious about hitting the roads due to hazardous conditions. "Gusty winds could make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles." Officials also pointed out that any unsecured objects that are left outdoors could easily be blown away. That means that residents should prepare by securing trash bins, outdoor furniture, and any other loose objects before the strongest winds arrive.