The National Weather Service has issued an early spring snow alert.  The weather Impact level for Thursday through Saturday is Moderate with the following key messages: 1) High Wind Warnings are in effect for areas west of the Laramie Range. Wind gusts 50 to 60 mph can be expected. 2) Winter Storm Watches, Warnings and Advisories have been issued for the Sierra Madre and Snowy ranges, and for much of I-80 from Arlington through Cheyenne. Accumulating snowfall is likely. Unseasonably cold temperatures are expected Friday night which has prompted the issuance for a hard freeze watch.

For Laramie and Albany County there is a significant chance that snow accumulation greater than 4” is expected along with hard freeze alerts including temperatures as low as 23 degrees.   

This storm could cause power outages, hazardous travel conditions, and severe impacts to newborn livestock.  Residents in impacted areas, including Laramie, are encouraged to prepare for this storm by listening to updated weather forecasts; ensuring your cell phone is fully charged; checking your emergency supplies, including your emergency food and water supply; bringing your pets indoors; and reducing your need to travel during this event. Residents are also encouraged to keep furnace and water heater vents clear of ice to prevent carbon monoxide issues.  

In the event utility lines, including electrical, cable, or phone, are down due to this storm, stay away from the downed lines and contact the appropriate utility provider. Important contact information is below:

• Rocky Mountain Power (Electrical):  Call 1-877-508-5088 or text OUT to 759677.  If you have downed electrical lines in your area, get as far away as possible. Once you’re safe, call 9-1-1.
• Black Hills Energy (Natural Gas):  Call 1-888-890-5554.  If you smell a gas odor, immediately evacuate the building or area. Once you’re safe, call 9-1-1. 
• Spectrum (Phone/Cable/Internet):  1-833-267-6094
• Century Link (Phone):  1-800-244-1111
• Road & Travel Conditions:  Call 5-1-1 or visit https://wyoroad.info/

In an emergency, please call 9-1-1. DO NOT call 9-1-1 or dispatch to report power outages, obtain road and travel conditions, or other informational items.

Many trees and shrubs are beginning to leaf out. Freezing temperatures could cause rain and snow to collect on the leaves and branches putting a tremendous weight on tree limbs.  Do not park vehicles or other equipment under large trees.  Avoid walking and driving under trees laden with heavy snow. If trees on your property or on the right-of-way abutting your property have broken limbs that are falling onto the street, alley or public sidewalk, and if you are able (please keep your safety in mind first), clear the limbs out of the right-of-way. Otherwise, plan to have the limbs removed from the street, alley, and sidewalk at a later time.  Smaller trees can have the snow gently brushed off limbs to avoid damage.

Sign up for notices or events about what is happening in Laramie through https://cityoflaramie.org/list.aspx.