Winter Storm: Up to 20 Inches of Snow and 70 MPH Winds Incoming in Northwestern and Western Wyoming

The National Weather Service has released several warnings about winter storms that are forecast to bring up to 20 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 70 mph. The agency is warning that travel could become made "very difficult" in some places due to the severity of the weather conditions.

Where 20 Inches of Snow and 70 MPH Wind Gusts Are Forecast

On the afternoon of April 22, the National Weather Service issued a series of winter weather advisories for Wyoming. The advisories were active immediately and would remain in effect until Thursday, April 23 at 11 p.m.

According to the NWS' meteorologists, wind gusts of between 50 to 70 mph could strike the Absaroka Mountains at elevations above 9,000 feet. The advisories forecast that the following winds speeds could strike parts of Wyoming:

• Absaroka Mountains - between 50 to 70 mph
• Salt River and Wyoming Ranges - between 35 to 50 mph
• Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains - between 30 to 40 mph
• Yellowstone National Park - between 30 to 45 mph

According to the National Weather Service, Wyoming's Teton Mountains were expected to have the highest level of snow accumulation. It predicted that up to 20 inches of snow were possible for the highest elevations. Between six to 12 inches of snow could also arrive above 7,500 feet on the same mountains. Different advisories cautioned that the highest elevations of Pitchstone Plateau could see up to 18 inches, with between four and 12 inches at lower heights. Similarly, the Absaroka Mountains are facing between six and 12 inches of snow above 9,000 feet. The Chief Joseph Pass, Salt River and Wyoming Ranges were also expected to have inches of snow accumulate.

Due to the combination of high-speed winds and heavy snow, the advisories urged travelers to slow down and use caution. Additionally, residents were warned that travel could be very difficult in some of the affected areas.

Men's Journal automotive writer Chase Bierenkoven provided readers with essential tips for how to stay safe while driving in the winter. Based on advice from experts, he urged that proper tire maintenance is a key way to drive safely while traveling in winter conditions. He also suggested bringing safety equipment with you. The experts at the Canadian Automobile Association have put together their advice on how to craft the perfect winter travel safety kit.

Next: Extreme Cold Puts Older Adults at Risk—Expert Safety Advice (Exclusive)