ROCK SPRINGS – High winds causing blowing snow, poor visibility, drifting snow, and very icy conditions are expected to keep much of I-80 closed this morning.

Sustained winds of 40 to 45 mph and gusts in excess of 60 mph are being reported between Laramie and Rawlins. The winds not only create whiteout conditions, but they blow any traction-enhancing or deicing materials off the highway, making it difficult to keep the road surface safe.

Current weather forecasts predict the winds will begin dying down in the early afternoon. If that occurs, a reopening of the highway could be possible by mid-afternoon.