A late-season snowstorm is set to impact the Rocky Mountains on May 4, 2026, bringing significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions, coinciding with Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Forecasts indicate that the storm will deliver heavy snow across various regions, including parts of Wyoming and Colorado.
Key snowfall predictions:
- 10 to 24 inches of snow expected across the Front Range foothills and Rocky Mountain National Park.
- I-80 between Cheyenne and Laramie is forecasted to receive 8 to 16 inches from Monday night through Wednesday noon.
- A separate Winter Storm Warning predicts 5 to 10 inches of snow at Arlington and Elk Mountain along I-80.
According to sources, travel conditions are anticipated to be very difficult to impossible at times, especially late Tuesday. The National Weather Service noted that heavy snow could create whiteout conditions with wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph.
Cheyenne may see total snow accumulation between 4 and 8 inches through Wednesday, further complicating travel plans for those celebrating Cinco de Mayo. The storm is expected to exit the area by Wednesday afternoon, allowing for a return to warmer conditions by Thursday.
The historic problem area remains the stretch west of Rawlins toward Bitter Creek and the Continental Divide, where previous storms have resulted in drift heights exceeding four feet.
As preparations continue for this late-season storm, officials urge travelers to monitor weather updates closely and consider delaying non-essential travel during peak storm conditions.