As Wyoming heads into another powerful winter season, families across the state are already asking the familiar question: “Will there be a snow day tomorrow?”
From the rugged Teton Mountains to the windy plains around Cheyenne and Casper, Wyoming winters are known for harsh storms, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable travel.
For 2025, updated winter forecasts and a new Wyoming Snow Day Calculator aim to help parents, students, and commuters stay informed and prepared for possible school closures.
What to Expect from Wyoming’s Winter 2025
Weather experts predict that Winter 2025 in Wyoming will be colder, windier, and snowier than normal.
Key highlights include:
- Below-average temperatures, especially in central and northern Wyoming
- Frequent Arctic fronts bringing sudden temperature drops
- Heavy snowstorms across Jackson Hole, Sheridan, Cody, and surrounding areas
- High winds for Cheyenne, Laramie, and other southeast cities
- An early buildup of snow in December and January, increasing the chances of closures
- February will bring alternating freeze–thaw cycles, raising black ice risks on rural roads
Districts like Natrona County, Albany County, and Laramie County often cancel classes for low wind chills, visibility problems, or unsafe bus routes—especially for rural students who travel long distances every morning.
How Wyoming Schools Decide on Closures
School leaders—including superintendents, transportation teams, and emergency managers—start evaluating conditions as early as the night before a storm.
Important closure factors include:
- Total snowfall expected
- Wind chill and risk of frostbite
- Road visibility and drifting snow
- Timing of the storm
- Highway and rural road conditions
Announcements typically go out before 5:30–6:00 a.m.
Because many Wyoming students live far from main roads, even a few extra inches can make travel impossible. This is why districts like Natrona and Laramie often choose safety over schedule.
Snow Day in Wyoming: 2025 Closure Probabilities & Forecast Insights
The National Weather Service expects a 15–20% increase in snowfall for parts of central and northern Wyoming in early 2025.
To help families plan ahead, here are important tips:
- Subscribe to alerts from NOAA and the Wyoming Department of Education
- Charge power banks, keep flashlights ready
- Test heating systems before deep winter arrives
- Keep vehicle emergency kits stocked
- Build calm routines for kids during closures
Regional Forecast Table
| Region / City | Avg Snowfall (in) | Closure Probability | Peak Months | Forecast Source | Safety Tip |
| Cheyenne | 58 | High (65%) | Dec–Jan | NWS | Prepare backup childcare plans |
| Casper | 71 | Moderate–High (55%) | Jan–Feb | NOAA | Keep heat packs + emergency food |
| Jackson | 400+ (mountains) | High (80%) | Nov–Mar | Avalanche Center | Avoid mountain travel during warnings |
| Gillette | 60 | Moderate (45%) | Dec–Feb | WYDOT | Carry de-icer and tire chains |
| Laramie | 74 | High (70%) | Jan–Feb | UW Climate Station | Review your family emergency plan |
| Rock Springs | 55 | Moderate (40%) | Dec–Jan | Sweetwater County | Check I-80 advisories |
Introducing the Wyoming Snow Day Calculator (2025)
This new tool helps families estimate the likelihood of a closure based on:
- Forecast snowfall
- Temperature
- Wind speed
- District safety policies
Simply enter:
- Your city or ZIP code
- Predicted snowfall
- Expected temperatures
- Storm arrival time
The calculator then gives a percentage likelihood of school closure.
Example:
If Cheyenne faces a blizzard with sub-zero temperatures, the calculator may show a 90% chance of closure.
If Gillette receives only light snow, it might show 10%.
Regional Snow Day Trends Across Wyoming
Wyoming’s varied geography produces very different winter patterns:
Western Mountains (Jackson Hole, Teton Pass)
- Heavy, consistent snowfall
- Frequent closures in rural districts
- High avalanche activity
Central Wyoming (Casper, Riverton)
- Fast-moving snow squalls
- Icy roads
- Often results in travel delays rather than full closures
Southeast (Cheyenne, Torrington)
- Strong winds
- Blowing snow + whiteout conditions
- Wind, not snowfall, is the main reason for closures
Northern Counties (Sheridan, Buffalo)
- Moderate temperatures
- Occasional lake-effect snowfall from nearby basins
Winter Safety Tips & Emergency Kit Guide
Wyoming’s long winter season means every family should prepare:
Key Safety Measures
- Warmth First: Keep extra gloves, boots, and blankets ready
- Backup Power: Battery heaters, generator (with ventilation), charged banks
- Emergency Contacts: Local Red Cross, Wyoming Dept. of Health, neighbors
- Safe Travel: Always check I-80 and Hwy 287 conditions
- Emotional Support: Snow days can be stressful—keep routines comforting
Local Resources for Wyoming Families
To stay updated on closures, conditions, and alerts:
- Wyoming Department of Education
- NWS Riverton & Cheyenne Offices
- WYDOT highway cameras
- Local TV and radio: K-2 Radio (Casper), Wyoming News Now
- School district text alert systems
Wyoming Snow Risk Zones Explained
| Snow Risk Level | Key Areas | Avg Snow (in) | Impacts | Recommended Action | Source |
| High | Jackson, Pinedale, Cody | 120–180 | Blizzards, road closures | Stock full emergency kit | NWS Riverton |
| High–Medium | Lander, Dubois, Thermopolis | 90–120 | Low visibility, icy roads | Maintain safety checklist | WYDOT |
| Medium | Casper, Riverton, Sheridan | 70–90 | Periodic closures | Check district alerts daily | Dept. of Education |
| Medium–Low | Rawlins, Rock Springs | 50–70 | Wind-driven snow | Prepare for I-80 hazards | Highway Patrol |
| Low | Cheyenne, Torrington | 30–50 | Light snow, strong windchill | Ensure proper winter gear | Cheyenne OEM |
| Variable | Bighorn Basin, Green River | 40–100 | Varies by elevation | Follow regional bulletins | State Climate Office |
Preparing for Harsh Winter Conditions
Wyoming residents know that winter preparation is a necessity. Families should:
- Install winter tires
- Keep emergency supplies ready
- Prepare layered clothing
- Test heating systems
- Register for school alerts
Schools also prepare by:
- Inspecting heating systems
- Servicing buses
- Readying snow-removal equipment
- Updating communication systems
Looking Ahead: Safety & Community Spirit
Snow days in Wyoming are more than cancelled classes—they’re part of the state’s winter culture. Families build snow forts, drink hot cocoa, and enjoy quiet moments together.
Even in harsh storms, Wyoming communities stay united—checking on neighbors, helping shovel driveways, and supporting local families.
As Winter 2025 continues, staying informed and prepared will allow families to enjoy the beauty of the season while staying safe.
Final Thoughts
Wyoming’s Winter 2025 will bring challenges, but also moments of calm, beauty, and community connection.
Keep your eye on:
- Weather forecasts
- WYDOT travel conditions
- The Wyoming Snow Day Calculator
And be ready for that early-morning announcement that students across the state love:
Frequently Asked Questions — Wyoming Winter 2025
How severe is winter expected to be in 2025?
Colder-than-average with higher snowfall.
Which cities have the highest chance of closures?
Jackson, Laramie, Cheyenne, and Casper.
How does the Snow Day Calculator work?
It uses real-time forecast data to estimate closure probabilities.
Is the calculator accurate?
It provides estimates—not guarantees—but is helpful for planning.
How much snow typically triggers a closure?
Varies by district; often less in rural areas.
When are closures announced?
Usually between 5:00–6:00 a.m.
Why do rural districts close more often?
Long travel distances and unsafe road conditions.
Which regions get the most snow?
Western mountains near Jackson and the Tetons.
What do schools consider before canceling?
Visibility, wind chill, snowfall, and road safety.
Are Wyoming winters becoming more unpredictable?
Yes—storm frequency has increased 15–25% in the last decade.
What safety items should families prepare?
Heating backups, emergency kits, winter clothing.
Which months have the highest closure risk?
December, January, and early February.
What should parents do during extended closures?
Maintain routines, ensure warmth, support children emotionally.
How can families stay informed?
NOAA alerts, WYDOT updates, local school notifications.