Helena, Montana – Drivers across central and north central Montana are facing slick roads and hazardous bridge conditions this morning as accumulating snow continues to impact the early commute, with mountain passes already reporting reduced traction before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Great Falls, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 11 a.m. Monday for Judith Basin County, Fergus County below 4,500 feet, the Helena Valley, Meagher County valleys, and multiple mountain ranges including the Big Belts, Elkhorns, and the Bridger and Castle Mountains. Snow totals are expected to reach 1 to 4 inches in lower elevations, with 5 to 10 inches piling up in higher terrain.
Key travel routes near Bozeman Pass, Homestake Pass, MacDonald Pass, and Deep Creek Pass are likely to remain slick through midmorning, especially on bridges and overpasses where freezing occurs faster. MDT crews are treating primary highways, but secondary roads near Lewistown, White Sulphur Springs, Boulder, and Stanford may remain snow-packed during the morning hours.
The advisory also highlights stress risks for newborn livestock, particularly in exposed rural areas where wind and accumulating snow increase cold exposure. Ranchers are urged to monitor young animals closely and limit exposure until conditions improve.
Snow tapers late this morning, but lingering slick spots could persist into the midday commute. Additional advisories may be issued if snow intensity increases or road conditions deteriorate.
