Wyoming Spring Runoff 2020 Flood Potential--issued April 8th

Above Average Temperatures for the West and Central Plains; Lake Effect Snow Continues

Well above average temperatures will prevail across the Plains and the West Coast this week, while a cold front will bring Arctic air to the South and East Coast Thursday and Friday. Lake effect snow is forecast downwind of the Great Lakes through Thursday along and behind the Arctic front, as well as mountain snow across the Southern Appalachians. Read More >

SYNOPSIS

Early April snowpack and/or SWEs were above average (105 to 115% of median) across almost all major basins in Wyoming.

Above average snow depths across far western Wyoming.

Average soil moisture percentages across basins in northeastern Wyoming and portions of the Wind River Basin; Below average soil moisture percentages across southern Wyoming.

Widespread pine bark beetle damage (2010 to 2018) across the Upper North Platte, Little Snake, Laramie, and Wind River Basins.

No significant precipitation trends during the spring runoff season (May – July). Above average temperatures are expected across central to western Wyoming during the runoff season.

HIGHLIGHTS

Low to Moderate potential for flooding due to spring snowmelt runoff across portions of the Salt River Basin (far western Wyoming) and portions of the Little Laramie River Basin. All other headwater basins will generally have a Low potential for snowmelt runoff flooding.

Latest Wyoming Spring Flood Potential graphic: