Weather
Montana Weather Oct. 10-12: Mountain Snow Could Impact Travel West of Billings
Billings, MT – Snowfall is expected across mountains and foothills west of Billings beginning late Saturday, Oct. 10, and continuing into Monday, Oct. 12, with the heaviest accumulations forecast at e
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-10T00:26:36.055Z
Billings, MT – Snowfall is expected across mountains and foothills west of Billings beginning late Saturday, Oct. 10, and continuing into Monday, Oct. 12, with the heaviest accumulations forecast at elevations above 8,000 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, the greatest snowfall is expected on northeast facing mountain slopes, while lower elevations and valleys should receive considerably less accumulation.
The forecast snowfall map shows the potential for 12 to 18 inches near Neihart in the higher terrain, while areas around Harlowton could receive 3 to 4 inches. Snowfall amounts will vary considerably with elevation and location.
Mountain areas near Livingston, Gardiner and Red Lodge are also included in the snowfall forecast, although the highest totals are concentrated in elevated terrain rather than nearby communities.
Forecasters warned that accumulating snow could create difficult driving conditions late Saturday through Monday, particularly along mountain passes and higher elevation roads.
Heavy snow may also weigh down trees that still have leaves, potentially causing branches to break or trees to become damaged.
Elevation will be a major factor in determining snowfall totals, with higher hills and mountains expected to receive substantially more snow than surrounding valleys.
The forecast does not indicate that Billings or other lower elevation communities will experience the same snowfall amounts shown across the mountains.
Travelers heading into the mountains of south central Montana should monitor updated forecasts and check road conditions before departure, especially during the late weekend and Monday travel periods.
The National Weather Service has not identified a specific winter weather watch, warning or advisory in the supplied briefing.
Snowfall is expected to develop late Saturday and continue into Monday, with the greatest travel concerns focused on mountain passes and higher terrain west and southwest of Billings.