Billings, Montana – A warmer-than-normal and wetter weather pattern is expected to develop across Montana heading into Valentine’s Day weekend, increasing the likelihood of snow in the mountains, rain or mixed precipitation at lower elevations, and travel slowdowns from Saturday through midweek. While no single high-impact winter storm is currently locked in, repeated systems could create cumulative impacts on highways and mountain passes.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Montana is favored for above-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures during the February 14–18 period. This setup reduces the intensity of Arctic cold while increasing confidence in moisture-rich systems moving through the Northern Rockies and High Plains.
In south-central Montana, including Billings, Laurel, and the I-90 corridor, milder daytime temperatures may allow precipitation to fall as rain at times, especially during daylight hours. Overnight cooling could still bring periods of wet snow or slush, creating slick travel conditions during early morning hours.
Western Montana, including Missoula, Kalispell, and the Flathead Valley, is expected to see more frequent snow, particularly in the higher terrain. Warmer air aloft may lead to heavier, moisture-laden snowfall in the mountains, increasing impacts over Lookout Pass, Lolo Pass, and along U.S. 93.
Across central and northern Montana, including Great Falls and Havre, fluctuating temperatures could cause precipitation to change types, leading to variable road conditions on I-15, U.S. 2, and rural highways. Additional moisture falling on existing snowpack may increase runoff into rivers and streams later in the period.
Montana Department of Transportation crews are expected to remain in active winter operations as systems move through. Air travel through Billings Logan International Airport and Missoula International Airport may see occasional delays during periods of low ceilings or steadier precipitation.
This warmer, wetter pattern is expected to persist into midweek. Additional advisories may be issued as individual systems become clearer, and residents are urged to stay alert for updated alerts, especially for mountain travel and overnight driving conditions.
