WEST GLACIER, Mont. – A powerful early fall storm will blanket northwestern Montana this weekend, with heavy mountain snow, flash freezes, and dangerous travel conditions expected from Saturday evening through Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday until noon Monday for the West Glacier Region, including Marias Pass, Logan Pass, Bad Rock Canyon, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Essex, and Polebridge. Snow totals are projected to reach up to 3 inches in valleys and 5 to 12 inches in mountain passes, with the highest peaks nearing 20 inches.
Forecasters expect the most intense snowfall late Saturday night into Sunday morning, with “major to isolated extreme” impacts possible. The Montana Department of Transportation warns that Highway 83 from Bigfork to Swan Lake and U.S. 2 over Marias Pass could see closures or treacherous conditions. Drivers should avoid nonessential travel and prepare for icy roads and low visibility.
“Flash freezes may occur both Saturday and Sunday nights,” meteorologists said, noting that wet roads could turn icy in minutes. Those traveling in Glacier National Park should prepare for rapidly changing weather, snow-covered trails, and potential power interruptions in remote areas. Residents are advised to protect pets, pipes, and outdoor equipment from subfreezing temperatures.
The storm’s impacts may linger into Monday morning, with slick roads and delays possible for commuters and school transportation across Flathead and Glacier counties.
