Truckers’ Daily Weather Briefing – Thursday, October 16, 2025
National overview: A generally quiet fall day for most of the Lower 48. Primary watch-outs: a low-end flash flood risk across the Four Corners/southern Rockies, periods of mountain snow from northwest Wyoming into southern Montana, and gusty south winds creating crosswind issues across the central Plains. The Northeast is cool, dry, and breezy behind an earlier coastal system.
Hotspot 1: Four Corners / Southern Rockies (southern CO into northern NM)
Impact: Isolated flash flooding in heavier downpours with brief ponding and reduced visibility.
- Affected corridors: I-25 (Raton Pass area), I-40 east of Albuquerque, US-550 and US-285 in NM/CO.
- Road hazards: Rapid visibility drops in heavier cells, slick spots from standing water, quick rises in arroyos/low-water crossings.
- Driver tactics:
- Slow down in bursts of heavy rain; increase following distance and avoid sudden lane changes.
- Do not drive through water-covered dips or crossings; turn around if water depth is unknown.
- Use headlights and defrosters to maintain visibility; keep wipers in good condition.
- Plan fuel/meal stops before longer rural stretches where services are limited.
Hotspot 2: Northwest WY into Southern MT High Country
Impact: Periods of mountain snow producing slick conditions and reduced visibility on higher passes; light wintry travel possible on approaches.
- Affected corridors/areas: Yellowstone/Teton region and adjacent ranges; US-191, US-26, US-89, US-287. Watch secondary roads connecting to I-90 in southern MT.
- Road hazards: Icy/slick patches on passes and bridge decks, slushy shoulders, quick weather changes with elevation.
- Driver tactics:
- Budget extra time for mountain routes and consider daylight pass crossings when practical.
- Carry and know how to install traction devices per company/state rules.
- Avoid cruise control in snowfall; use lower gears on descents and brake gently to prevent skids.
- Check that lights are clear of snow and that mirrors/cameras remain unobstructed.
Hotspot 3: Central Plains (eastern NE, western IA)
Impact: Gusty south winds generating crosswinds for high-profile vehicles, with frequent gusts around 30 mph this afternoon and evening.
- Affected corridors: I-80 and I-29, especially on exposed stretches and elevated roadways.
- Road hazards: Sudden lateral pushes on open plains, stronger gusts on bridges/overpasses.
- Driver tactics:
- Secure light/partial loads and reduce speed to maintain lane control.
- Use both hands on the wheel; anticipate gusts when passing gaps in windbreaks or large vehicles.
- Plan schedules to avoid the peak gust window where possible, or build in rest breaks during the afternoon/evening.
- Increase following distance to allow for sway and longer stopping distances.
Additional Regional Note: Northeast
Cool, dry, and breezy. Local gusts near 25–30 mph may affect empty or lightly loaded trailers along I-95 in southern New England. Use caution on coastal bridges and exposed segments; secure doors and tarps.
Closing Safety Tip
Match your speed to conditions, not the speed limit. In rain, snow, or strong crosswinds, slow down early, increase following distance, and make smooth inputs. A small speed reduction greatly increases traction and reaction time, reducing the chance of weather-related incidents.
Sources: National Weather Service, Weather Prediction Center, local NWS forecast offices, state DOT road reports, and The Weather Channel.
This weather briefing was prepared exclusively for truckstopinsider.com.
