WYDOT urges motorists to use extra caution during major winter storm

Motorists will continue to see winter travel conditions on many highways throughout Wyoming into Monday from winter storm Jaxon.

The storm is impacting travel throughout the state. Wyoming Department of Transportation snowplow crews are working to ensure the roadways are open and safe, but motorists should be prepared for adverse driving conditions, buckle up and expect slow travel.

Motorists will encounter snow, blowing and drifting snow, windy and icy conditions, and poor visibility during the winter storm.

Late Sunday morning, WYDOT closed Interstate 80 westbound near Laramie due to an accident. However, crews are working to clear the wreck and reopen the road.

Other roadways may be closed and WYDOT has issued no unnecessary travel and black ice advisories on several interstates and roads throughout the state. Motorists can get the latest conditions and advisories by visiting WYDOT's 511 website.

The storm started Friday in the west and northwest parts of the state. By Saturday, the storm traveled to the central and southwest areas, and the southeast by Saturday night. As of Sunday, the majority of the storm has moved into the southeast part of the state.

The National Weather Service anticipates snowfall will continue until 6 p.m. Sunday. Throughout the state, storm totals will be about 5 to 10 inches, with locally higher amounts especially at higher elevations, information from DayWeather weather service indicated. However, areas of blowing and drifting snow will continue Sunday into Monday.
    
When driving in winter weather, motorists should always buckle up, check their tires before heading out, not use cruise control, accelerate and decelerate slowly, increase following distance, carry an emergency kit and keep their gas tanks at least half full.

Motorists also should let people know their destinations and leave extra early. If a motorist gets into an accident, they should call 911 from their cell phones and remain in their vehicles.

WYDOT also wants to remind motorists to be cautious when driving near snowplows. Plows create a large cloud of snow, making it difficult to see and safely pass the snow removal equipment.  

For more information about travel and road conditions, motorists can visit WYDOT’s 511 website.