Wyoming has experienced its fair share of severe weather over the years, with storms that have left lasting marks on the state’s history.
From powerful tornadoes to devastating blizzards, these natural events have tested the resilience of both the land and its people.
What are the most significant storms that shaped Wyoming?
The ten biggest storms in Wyoming’s history offer a glimpse into the power and unpredictability of nature.
These events highlight the challenges faced by the communities affected and the remarkable stories of survival and recovery.
1. 1985 Cheyenne Flood
The 1985 Cheyenne Flood struck on August 1st. A severe hailstorm caused flash flooding in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Six inches of rain fell in just a few hours, leading to disastrous conditions.
Crow Creek, Dry Creek, and downtown Cheyenne were heavily affected.
The floodwaters rose rapidly, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems.
This catastrophic event claimed 12 lives and caused over $60 million in property damage.
Many homes and businesses were destroyed or severely damaged.
For a detailed account, visit the National Weather Service.
An aerial view of the devastation can be seen in this report.
2. Blizzard of 1949
The Blizzard of 1949 struck Wyoming on January 2 and is considered the worst of the century.
It was a relentless storm lasting two months, causing significant damage and loss of life. Wind speeds reached 65-80 mph.
Snow accumulation was measured in feet, creating massive drifts that buried vehicles and buildings.
The National Weather Service reported 12 deaths in Wyoming due to the initial storm.
This historic snowstorm also affected Nebraska and the Dakotas, leading to a total of 40 deaths across the region.
The blizzard’s severity was unexpected, leaving many unprepared for its impact.
3. 1955 Lander Flash Flood
In 1955, a sudden flash flood struck Lander, Wyoming.
This disaster was caused by an intense thunderstorm that unleashed a significant amount of rain in a short period.
The floodwaters surged through the town, causing widespread damage.
Homes and businesses were heavily affected, and the community faced a challenging recovery.
The 1955 Lander Flash Flood remains one of Wyoming’s most notable natural disasters due to its impact on the small town.
It serves as a reminder of the power of severe weather in the region.
4. Wind River Canyon Flood 1963
In 1963, the Wind River Canyon in Wyoming experienced one of the most significant floods in its history.
This flood was triggered by a combination of heavy spring snowmelt and substantial rainfall. The situation was worsened by the partial failure of the Worthen Reservoir.
The floodwaters surged through the canyon, causing severe damage to nearby communities and landscapes.
Roads and bridges suffered substantial damage, disrupting travel and communication in the area.
The event was a major challenge for emergency services and the local population, who worked tirelessly to manage the crisis.
More details about the flood can be found in this article.
5. 1984 Snowstorm in Casper
The 1984 snowstorm in Casper stands out in Wyoming’s history.
This storm began on April 25, 1984, and lasted for three days. During this time, it dropped almost three feet of snow across the area.
Winds gusted at hurricane-like speeds, reaching up to 75 mph.
These winds created massive snowdrifts, some as long as 100 feet and as high as 20 feet.
Many residents were stranded due to blocked roads.
Power outages were common, and emergency services struggled to keep up. People relied on each other and their own resources to get through the storm.
This storm is remembered as one of Casper’s most significant weather events.
For more information, you can visit this article on the Blizzard of ’84.
6. 1978 Laramie Tornado
In 1978, a powerful tornado hit Laramie, Wyoming.
It caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. The tornado was unexpected and left many residents in shock.
This tornado had winds strong enough to tear roofs off houses and uproot trees.
The destruction it caused took a long time to clean up.
While it was not the deadliest storm in Wyoming’s history, it was still one of the most significant.
People remember it for the intense winds and the substantial damage it caused.
7. Alcova Dam Flood 1955
In 1955, Wyoming experienced a significant flood event at Alcova Dam.
Heavy rainfall and snowmelt led to high water levels in the North Platte River.
The dam, constructed as part of a larger project on the North Platte, was put under severe strain.
Fortunately, the dam held, preventing a catastrophic disaster.
Although the dam didn’t fail, the floodwaters caused considerable damage downstream, impacting local farmlands and infrastructure.
The incident underscored the importance of monitoring and maintaining water control structures.
8. 1982 Medicine Bow Peak Lightning Storm
In 1982, Medicine Bow Peak was struck by a powerful lightning storm that took many by surprise.
The storm produced intense lightning strikes that lit up the sky and caused significant damage to the area.
The peak, known for its scenic views and hiking trails, became a dangerous place during the storm.
Hikers in the area had to seek immediate shelter to avoid the deadly lightning.
This storm also highlighted the importance of safety measures in such natural events.
Park officials now strongly advise visitors to stay in designated shelters during storms to avoid similar risks.
The event remains a notable reminder of the raw power of nature in Wyoming’s high altitudes.
9. 2014 Donovan Canyon Windstorm
In 2014, Donovan Canyon experienced a fierce windstorm that wreaked havoc in the area.
The storm brought with it wind speeds reaching up to 90 mph.
Many trees were uprooted, blocking roads and causing power outages.
Buildings and homes also suffered significant damage, with roofs being torn off and windows shattered.
The storm’s intensity caused widespread disruption.
Local authorities worked tirelessly to restore services and clear debris.
Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the community faced a long recovery process.
10. 1935 Sheridan Flood
The 1935 Sheridan Flood hit Sheridan, Wyoming, causing widespread chaos.
Heavy rains led to the flooding of Big Goose Creek and Little Goose Creek.
Streets became rivers, and wooden paving blocks were washed away. Basements and bridges were also flooded, making travel and daily activities nearly impossible.
Debris accumulated under bridges, causing additional water backup.
Damage was significant, estimated at around $500,000.
This event remains a notable disaster in Sheridan’s history, highlighting the community’s vulnerability to sudden and intense weather events.
Geographical Impact of Wyoming’s Biggest Storms
Wyoming’s major storms have left lasting impressions on its geography. They have affected various regions and influenced the terrain and weather patterns across the state.
Affected Regions
Several regions in Wyoming have been significantly impacted by tornadoes and storms.
The northern section of Cheyenne was notably hit in 1979 by a devastating F3 tornado, resulting in extensive damage and impacting local communities (most destructive in Wyoming history).
Other regions, such as Fremont County, have seen multiple tornadoes in the 21st century, recording seven since 2000.
While these tornadoes have not all been high-intensity, their cumulative effect has shaped local infrastructure.
Counties with the most tornadoes include Goshen and Platte, areas often struck by severe storms.
These regions experience recurring damage, influencing both human settlements and natural environments.
Terrain and Weather Patterns
The state’s terrain significantly affects the behavior and impact of storms.
Wyoming’s diverse landscape includes plains, mountains, and valleys, each interacting differently with storm systems. Tornadoes tend to form more frequently in flatter areas.
High winds, associated with these storms, erode soil and reshape the landscape.
Vegetation patterns also change, as certain plants are more resilient to storm damage.
Weather patterns in Wyoming have shifted with increasing storm intensity.
Over the last 20 years, the state saw a marked rise in high-intensity tornadoes, ranking ninth in the nation for this increase (high-intensity tornadoes increase).
This change alters local climates, affecting agriculture and daily life.
Historical Context and Preparation
Wyoming has faced numerous significant storms, with historical records chronicling their paths, intensities, and impacts.
Preparation and response systems have evolved to improve safety and minimize destruction.
Historical Weather Records
Since the mid-20th century, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has recorded tornadoes in Wyoming.
Data dates back to 1950, highlighting the occurrence and impact of these storms.
One notable tornado is the 1979 Cheyenne tornado, which was the most destructive in Wyoming’s history, causing $25 million in damages, 40 injuries, and one fatality.
Weather records help in understanding patterns and preparing for future storms.
Smaller scale tornadoes, mostly EF0 and EF1, also caused significant damage, contributing to over $900 million in property damage since 2012.
Preparation and Response Systems
Wyoming has developed robust preparation and response systems to tackle severe weather.
Early warning systems, public awareness campaigns, and emergency preparedness plans play crucial roles.
Communities are encouraged to have emergency kits and action plans.
The state monitors weather patterns through meteorological agencies and local government bodies.
Schools and workplaces regularly conduct tornado drills, ensuring everyone knows what to do during a storm.
By learning from past events, officials aim to reduce the risks and effects of future storms.
These systems are continually updated to incorporate new technologies and data, helping to save lives and protect property during severe weather occurrences.
Climate Change and Future Storm Predictions
Climate change is reshaping weather patterns globally, resulting in more intense storms. Wyoming is not immune to these transformations.
Scientists predict the frequency and severity of storms will increase in the coming decades.
Impact of Climate Change on Storm Frequency
Climate change is leading to a rise in atmospheric temperatures.
Warmer air holds more moisture, which can lead to more intense storms.
According to the IPCC, climate change is not only about temperature; it brings multiple changes, including shifts in precipitation patterns, increasing both wet and dry spells.
In Wyoming, these changes could mean more severe thunderstorms.
The NOAA Storm Prediction Center states that severe storms, including those with damaging winds and hail, may become more common.
As a result, communities may face greater risks of flooding and other storm-related impacts.
Future Weather Predictions for Wyoming
Looking ahead, Wyoming may experience a higher incidence of extreme weather events.
The NOAA Climate.gov offers tools for future climate projections.
For Wyoming, these projections indicate increased variability in precipitation and temperature.
The PNAS interactive maps reveal that regions in Wyoming could face challenges from increased temperatures and more frequent intense storms by mid-century.
These changes may particularly affect areas prone to flash flooding and droughts, requiring enhanced preparedness and resilience measures for local communities.