Billings, MT – Confidence is growing that a significant pattern change will take hold across Montana next week, bringing below-average temperatures and the potential for light snow, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Billings.
According to NWS forecasters, the 6–10 day temperature outlook for November 18–22 shows a strong probability of below-normal temperatures spreading across much of the Northern Rockies. The colder air mass could be the coldest of the season so far, though uncertainty still remains regarding exact timing and intensity.
A broad area of cooler-than-average air is expected to settle over Montana starting midweek, with Billings and surrounding communities falling into a region highlighted for colder-than-normal conditions. While the temperature signal is strong, forecasters caution that the details of snowfall potential remain more variable.
Light snow is possible during this period, but NWS emphasizes high uncertainty in both snow levels and accumulation amounts. Early indications suggest that several periods of light precipitation could develop as the colder air deepens, especially in higher terrain and foothill regions. For now, forecasters expect any snow to remain light and scattered.
The outlook shows near-normal precipitation chances for Montana overall, but the shift to colder temperatures means even modest moisture could fall as snow. Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor updates over the coming days as the pattern becomes clearer.
Forecasters say this colder shift marks a notable departure from the recent mild weather and could set the stage for more wintry conditions heading toward Thanksgiving week.
