Wyoming Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

General Climate
Wyoming’s climate is characterized by cold, dry winters and warm, moderately rainy summers. The state is located in a rain shadow, resulting in relatively low precipitation year-round. The average annual temperature is 42°F (6°C). However, temperatures vary significantly throughout the state, with warmer temperatures in the eastern prairies and colder temperatures in the mountainous areas. The highest and lowest recorded temperatures in Wyoming are 116°F (46°C) and -66°F (-54°C), respectively.

Seasonal Weather
Summer (June – August): Summers in Wyoming are generally warm and dry. Temperatures average in the mid-70s°F (20s°C), with occasional heat waves pushing temperatures into the 90s°F (30s°C). Precipitation is moderate, with occasional thunderstorms.

Winter (December – February): Winters in Wyoming are long and cold. Temperatures average in the mid-20s°F (-4°C), but can drop below zero during cold snaps. Snowfall is common, with an average snowfall of over 60 inches per year in some areas. Wind chill and snowstorms can create hazardous conditions.

Spring (March – May): Spring in Wyoming is characterized by rapid temperature fluctuations. Days can be warm, with temperatures reaching into the 50s°F (10s°C), while nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Precipitation is variable, with rain and snow both possible.

Fall (September – November): Fall in Wyoming is a beautiful season with crisp air and vibrant foliage. Temperatures gradually cool, with average temperatures in the 40s°F (5°C) in September and dropping into the 30s°F (0°C) by November. Precipitation is generally light, with a mix of rain and snow.

Seasonal Variations

Wyoming experiences significant seasonal variations in temperature, influenced by its high elevation and continental climate. During the summer months (June-August), average temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius), with warm days and cool nights. However, as the state transitions into fall (September-November), temperatures begin to cool down rapidly. Winter (December-February) brings harsh conditions with average temperatures dropping to below freezing, ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 to -1 degrees Celsius). Winter nights can be particularly cold, with temperatures plunging below zero. In spring (March-May), temperatures gradually rise, but weather conditions can be unpredictable, with snowstorms and cold snaps still possible.

Regional Differences

Within Wyoming, there are noticeable regional differences in temperature. The western and northern parts of the state tend to be cooler than the southeastern and central areas. For example, the average July temperature in Jackson Hole is 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius), while in Cheyenne it is 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius). Additionally, mountainous areas experience colder temperatures compared to lower-lying regions. Cities located in valleys, such as Casper and Rock Springs, have warmer average temperatures throughout the year.

Types of Clouds in Wyoming

Wyoming’s vast and open skies provide ample opportunities for cloud observation. The most common cloud types found in the state include cirrus, cumulus, stratus, and cumulonimbus. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds made of ice crystals and appear high in the sky. Cumulus clouds are puffy or cotton-ball-like and are associated with fair weather. Stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover the sky evenly, often leading to overcast conditions. Cumulonimbus clouds are towering clouds with a flat base and a cauliflower-like top, and they can produce thunderstorms, lightning, and hail.

Weather Patterns Associated with Different Cloud Types

The presence of different cloud types can indicate specific weather patterns. In Wyoming, cirrus clouds often signal the approach of a warm front or a storm system. Cumulus clouds are generally associated with fair weather, but their development into cumulonimbus clouds can lead to severe weather. Stratus clouds often bring overcast skies and light precipitation, such as drizzle or snow. Cumulonimbus clouds are typically associated with thunderstorms and can produce heavy rain, lightning, and hail. By understanding the different cloud types and their associated weather patterns, individuals can better prepare for changing conditions and ensure their safety when engaging in outdoor activities.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Wyoming’s annual precipitation varies significantly across the state, with the wettest areas receiving an average of over 30 inches (76 centimeters) per year and the driest areas receiving less than 10 inches (25 centimeters). The wettest regions are the southwestern and southeastern parts of the state, particularly the mountainous areas and the Green River Basin. In these regions, heavy snowfall and summer thunderstorms contribute to the abundant precipitation. In contrast, the driest regions are the northern and central parts of the state, where the climate is semi-arid and precipitation is often sparse.

Seasonal Distribution of Precipitation

The seasonal distribution of precipitation in Wyoming is influenced by the state’s topography and climate. In the mountains, most of the annual precipitation falls as snow during the winter months, while in the lower-lying areas, precipitation is more evenly distributed throughout the year. During the summer months, thunderstorms are common in the state, bringing heavy rainfall. However, during the winter months, the state can experience heavy snowfall, particularly in the mountains. The timing and amount of precipitation have a significant impact on the state’s water resources, agriculture, and ecosystems.

Average Rainfall

Wyoming experiences relatively low annual rainfall compared to the national average, with most areas receiving less than 15 inches per year. The average annual rainfall in the state ranges from about 6 inches in the arid basins of the southwest to over 20 inches in the mountainous regions of the northwest. Seasonal variations also occur, with the majority of precipitation falling during the spring and summer months.

Distribution and Patterns

The distribution of rainfall in Wyoming is influenced by several factors, including altitude, topography, and proximity to major water bodies. The mountainous regions generally receive higher amounts of precipitation than the lower-lying areas. For example, the Wind River Mountains receive over 40 inches of rainfall annually, while the Great Divide Basin receives less than 10 inches. Additionally, areas located near major water bodies, such as the Great Salt Lake and the Green River, tend to receive more precipitation than those located farther away.

Seasonal Snowfall Patterns

Wyoming, a state renowned for its majestic mountain ranges and vast open spaces, experiences significant snowfall during the winter months. Snowfall patterns in the state vary significantly based on elevation and geographic location. The western and north-central regions, dominated by the Rocky Mountains, receive the highest snowfall. On average, areas like the Teton and Absaroka Ranges receive over 250 inches of snowfall annually.

In contrast, the eastern plains of Wyoming experience considerably less snowfall, averaging between 20 to 50 inches per year. The amount of snowfall also varies from year to year, influenced by factors such as ocean currents and atmospheric circulation patterns. During particularly heavy snowfalls, certain areas of Wyoming, especially the mountainous regions, can receive over 10 feet of snow within a single season.

Impacts of Snowfall

Snowfall has a significant impact on various aspects of life in Wyoming. It supports winter recreation activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, which contribute to the state’s tourism industry. However, heavy snowfall can also lead to transportation disruptions, road closures, and power outages. In recent years, Wyoming has experienced several major snowstorms, including the “Snowmageddon” storm of 2014, which brought record-breaking snowfall and caused significant damage to infrastructure.

Summer Sun in Wyoming

Wyoming is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and one of its most striking features is its abundant sunshine during the summer months. From June to August, the state experiences an average of 12-14 hours of sunlight per day, making it one of the sunniest places in the United States. The dry climate and high elevation contribute to Wyoming’s exceptional clarity, resulting in vibrant sunsets and starlit nights. During this period, outdoor activities flourish, and visitors can revel in the warm glow of the sun while exploring the state’s majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and vast rolling prairies.

Winter Sun in Wyoming

While Wyoming may receive less daylight during the winter months, the state’s clear skies can still provide spectacular spectacles when the sun makes an appearance. During the cold season, the average amount of sunshine decreases to 5-6 hours per day, but this can vary due to occasional cloud cover. However, when the sun pierces through the crisp winter air, it transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. The snow-laden mountains and sparkling lakes glisten in the sunlight, creating a picturesque setting for winter sports enthusiasts. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding are just a few of the activities that can be enjoyed while basking in the warmth of the winter sun in Wyoming.

Location and Astronomy

Moon, Wyoming is an unincorporated community located in the Big Horn Basin. Situated in the western part of the U.S. state of Wyoming, it lies approximately 35 miles northeast of the city of Riverton. Moon is within the Shoshone Tribal Statistical Area and is part of the Wind River Indian Reservation. According to the United States Census Bureau, Moon has a total area of 2.6 square miles, all of which is land. The community sits on the eastern edge of the Wind River Range, which is a subrange of the Rocky Mountains.

History and Economy

Moon was established in 1906 when the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad extended its line through the area. The railroad built a station and named it after the neighboring Moon Creek, which was in turn named after a local rancher named John Moon. The community’s economy has historically been based on agriculture and ranching, but in recent years, the local economy has diversified to include tourism and outdoor recreation. Moon is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and camping. The community is also home to the Moon Creek Farmstead, a historic ranch that hosts events and workshops.

Average Humidity Levels

Wyoming, located in the western United States, experiences a generally arid climate due to its high elevation and distance from major water bodies. The average relative humidity in Wyoming ranges from 30% to 50% throughout the year. This indicates that the air holds relatively low amounts of moisture, resulting in a dry atmosphere.

Seasonal Variations

Humidity levels in Wyoming exhibit seasonal variations. During the colder months, from October to April, humidity tends to be lower, often dropping below 30%. This is attributed to the cold temperatures, which reduce the capacity of the air to hold moisture. In contrast, summer months, particularly from June to August, experience slightly higher humidity levels, typically ranging between 40% and 50%. The increased humidity during summer is influenced by occasional thunderstorms and precipitation that bring moisture into the atmosphere.

Prevailing Winds and Speed

Wyoming is known for its strong and persistent winds, particularly in the eastern part of the state. The prevailing winds are typically from the west or northwest, and they can blow at speeds of over 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour). These winds are caused by the interaction between the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. As air flows over the mountains, it is forced to rise and cool. As it cools, the air becomes heavier and sinks, creating a pressure gradient that drives the wind.

Wind Energy Potential

The strong and steady winds in Wyoming make it an ideal location for wind energy development. In fact, Wyoming has some of the best wind resources in the United States. The state has installed over 1,000 megawatts of wind energy capacity, and it has the potential to install much more. Wind energy is a clean and renewable source of energy, and it can help to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

Spring (April to May):

Wyoming explodes with life and color in the springtime. As the snow melts away, lush green meadows emerge, dotted with wildflowers in vibrant hues. The days are typically mild and sunny, with occasional rain showers providing a refreshing contrast. This season is ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. You can witness the majestic elk and bison herds roaming the vast open spaces of the national parks. The iconic Old Faithful geyser is also at its most active during the spring, promising breathtaking eruptions.

Summer (June to August):

Wyoming transforms into a summer wonderland during these months. The temperatures soar, reaching their peak in July, but the low humidity makes it comfortable to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. The days are long, providing ample time for adventure. Yellowstone National Park is a must-see, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, geothermal wonders, and stunning hikes. Grand Teton National Park is another popular summer destination, showcasing towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant hiking trails. Visitors can also take advantage of whitewater rafting on the Snake River or enjoy a scenic drive along the Beartooth Highway, known for its breathtaking mountain vistas.

Potential and Utilization:

Wyoming possesses abundant solar energy potential, with an average of 300 sunny days per year. The state’s vast, sparsely populated landscapes offer ample space for solar development. However, current solar energy utilization remains relatively low compared to other renewable energy sources in the state. In 2022, solar energy accounted for less than 1% of Wyoming’s total electricity generation.

Recent Developments and Outlook:

In recent years, there has been growing interest and investment in solar energy projects in Wyoming. The state has implemented policies, such as net metering and tax incentives, to encourage solar development. Several large-scale solar projects are currently under construction or planning, with a combined capacity of over 1 gigawatt. These projects are expected to boost the state’s solar energy output significantly. Additionally, Wyoming is exploring the potential of integrating solar energy with other renewable energy sources, such as wind and geothermal, to create a more resilient energy system.

Rocky Mountains and Associated Basins

The western and central portions of Wyoming are dominated by the towering Rocky Mountains, with peaks reaching over 13,000 feet. The Bighorn Mountains in the north and the Laramie Range to the southeast form prominent mountain chains. These ranges are separated by wide, high-elevation basins such as the Bighorn Basin, Powder River Basin, and Laramie Basin. These basins are characterized by rolling hills, sagebrush flats, and vast grasslands.

Plateaus and Great Plains

In the eastern part of Wyoming, the landscape transitions to plateaus and the Great Plains. The High Plains, located in the northeast, consist of rolling grasslands with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The Red Desert, a barren and remote region in the southwest, is covered in red sand dunes. The Wyoming Basin, a vast depression in the south-central part of the state, hosts coal deposits and is surrounded by rimrocks, which are steep, eroded cliffs. The Great Plains extend from the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to the east, forming a vast expanse of rolling grasslands with occasional buttes and mesas.

Nearest Airport to Cheyenne, Wyoming

The nearest airport to Cheyenne, Wyoming, is Cheyenne Regional Airport (CYS). It is located approximately 5 miles (8 km) north of the city center and offers commercial flights to Denver, Salt Lake City, and Dallas/Fort Worth. CYS is a small airport with one terminal and four gates. It is served by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

Nearest Airport to Jackson, Wyoming

The nearest airport to Jackson, Wyoming, is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). It is located approximately 9 miles (14 km) north of the city center and offers commercial flights to Denver, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles. JAC is a small airport with one terminal and six gates. It is served by Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

History in Wyoming

Wyoming holds a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. Native American tribes, such as the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Crow, were the earliest inhabitants, leaving behind a legacy of cultural artifacts and historic landmarks. The arrival of European explorers and fur traders in the 19th century marked the beginning of the region’s modern history. Settlers, ranchers, and miners followed, shaping Wyoming’s economy and culture. In 1868, Wyoming became the first territory to grant women the right to vote, setting a precedent for women’s suffrage in the United States. Wyoming achieved statehood in 1890, and its history since has been marked by a combination of frontier spirit, economic development, and environmental stewardship.

Geography and Climate in Wyoming

Wyoming is located in the western region of the United States, bordered by Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Utah, Idaho, and Colorado. It is known for its vast and rugged landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, and the Red Desert. The state is home to some of the most iconic national parks in the country, including Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Devils Tower National Monument. Wyoming’s climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. Due to its high elevation and inland location, the state experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. The average annual temperature ranges from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with extreme temperatures reaching well below zero in winter and above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in summer.