Winter Storm Watch Issued for Central Montana

Skiers, snowboarders and snow lovers: we’re in for a treat over the next few days as a winter storm prepares to hit Montana. This will cause travel issues, especially Friday afternoon through Saturday morning in central Montana. Winter storm watches are in effect across much of the region during this time.

Today we can expect light snow showers and areas of fog, with cold temperatures hovering between 0 and 10 degrees. However, the Helena area will be a bit warmer, with highs reaching the upper 20s and lower 30s.

Two systems are expected to circulate over the next 48 hours. The first arrives this evening, with light snow developing in areas from Great Falls to Lewistown and Chouteau County. By Friday morning, 0.5 to 1″ will fall in the lower elevations, with 2 to 4″ expected in the mountains.

The second, much stronger system will move toward southwest Montana Friday morning. Snow will begin to fall in the Helena area late in the morning and spread to north-central Montana in the afternoon and evening. The heaviest snowfall will likely fall in the evening in areas along Highway 200 and overnight in areas to the north. Strong wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph east of I-15 will create blowing snow and snow drifts, leading to deteriorating road conditions throughout Friday.

For central Montana, widespread accumulations of 4-8″ east of I-15 and north of Highway 200, while most other areas will experience 2-4″ by Saturday morning. Central Montana’s mountain ranges could receive more than a foot of snow by the end of the storm. Snowfall is expected to decrease quickly Saturday morning, although light to moderate snowfall continues in the mountains through Monday.

Throughout the weekend, periodic light snowfall is possible, with high temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees and mostly cloudy skies. Heading into next week, high pressure will build over the Pacific Northwest, leading to a warming trend and drier conditions. However, be prepared for stronger winds and potential blowing snow next week. Enjoy the fresh powder and stay safe if you have to travel!