Billings, Montana – Snow-covered highways could redevelop before 8 a.m. Thursday along I-90 and U.S. Highway 87 as an active storm track keeps plows busy and winter driving conditions locked in across much of Montana.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Montana sits in a 50 to 60 percent above-normal precipitation zone through Tuesday, signaling an elevated chance for additional snowfall statewide. At the same time, the 8-to-14-day temperature outlook favors below-normal readings across much of the northern Rockies, reinforcing a wintry setup rather than an early spring thaw.
In Billings, where average highs this time of year sit in the mid-30s, temperatures may struggle to climb out of the 20s or low 30s during colder stretches. Bozeman and areas along I-90 could see periodic light to moderate snowfall, especially overnight when road temperatures drop quickly. Great Falls and central Montana may experience bursts of accumulating snow followed by gusty winds that reduce visibility on open stretches of Highway 89 and I-15.
Unlike much of the Midwest and eastern United States, where temperatures are trending 15 to 20 degrees above normal, Montana remains on the colder side of the jet stream. That contrast keeps precipitation falling primarily as snow.
Drivers should allow extra travel time, carry winter emergency kits and monitor MDT updates for changing road conditions. The active pattern continues into early next week, and additional advisories remain possible. Winter is not loosening its grip on Montana as February comes to a close.
