Glasgow, Montana – Conditions are coming together for a potential freezing rain event across portions of northeast Montana, raising concerns for slick roadways late Friday night into Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Glasgow.
Forecast models indicate a 40 to 60 percent chance that rain falling Friday night could freeze on contact with road surfaces, particularly during the overnight hours and into early Saturday. While confidence is not yet high enough for formal winter headlines, forecasters say now is the time to prepare for possible icy travel conditions.
The greatest concern is for light ice accumulation, defined as 0.01 inches or more, which is enough to make roads, bridges, sidewalks, and parking lots slippery. Travel impacts could develop quickly if temperatures hover near or below freezing while precipitation is ongoing. Major routes including U.S. Highway 2, as well as secondary highways and rural roads across Valley County and surrounding areas, could become hazardous.
The National Weather Service notes that freezing rain events can be especially dangerous because road conditions may deteriorate rapidly, even with minimal ice. Elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses are often the first to freeze, increasing the risk for spinouts and crashes during the Saturday morning drive window.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates closely, consider adjusting travel plans, and ensure vehicles are equipped with winter preparedness kits. Slower travel speeds, increased stopping distances, and extra commute time may be necessary if freezing rain develops.
Forecasters stress that small changes in temperature will determine whether precipitation falls as rain or freezes on contact, meaning forecast details may change as the event approaches. Additional updates are expected through Friday as confidence increases.
For the latest information, travelers should check weather.gov, local road condition resources, and official National Weather Service statements before heading out.
