UPDATE: Most Of Southeast Wyoming Now Facing Winter Storm Warning

UPDATE 1:40 p.m. The Cheyenne Office of the National Weather Service has now updated the Winter Storm Watch that had been in effect for Cheyenne and much of southeast Wyoming to a more severe Winter Storm Warning. Laramie at last report was just outside of the area covered by the storm warning, although snow and cold temperatures are forecast for Laramie.

According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning is Issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin

By contrast, a Winter Storm Watch: Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a Winter Storm

Here is a map of the area now covered by a Winter Storm Warning:

Original Post: The Cheyenne Office of the National Weather Service says up to 9 inches of snow are possible in low-lying areas of southeast Wyoming over the next couple of days.

Higher elevations could get up to 14 inches.

The agency posted the following on its website:

The agency says that Cheyenne will probably get at least six inches of snow, and there is a good chance that Laramie will:

An information packet on the winter weather from the National Weather Service included the following Key Points:

Key Messages ➔ An incoming winter storm will bring widespread snowfall to southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska panhandle. ➔ Snow will begin during the day on Thursday and will continue through Friday. ➔ Much colder temperatures are expected with this system. Cold temperatures will persist Thursday through the weekend. ➔ Winter Storm Watches are in effect for portions of southeast Wyoming and western Nebraska. ◆ In effect from 11 AM Thursday through 11 PM Friday. ◆ Accumulations of 4 to 9 inches. ◆ North Laramie Range 8-12+ inches. ➔ The hazardous conditions could impact holiday travel. ➔ Winter Storm Watches may be expanded into other areas and/or upgraded in future forecast packages

Here is the forecast for Cheyenne: