Great Falls, MT – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for parts of southwest and northwest Montana this weekend, with several inches of heavy, wet snow expected in mountain areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Great Falls, the watch remains in effect from Saturday evening through Sunday afternoon for the Gallatin and Madison County Mountains, the Centennial Mountains, and the East Glacier Park region.
Forecasters warn that elevations above 6,000 feet near Big Sky, West Yellowstone, Targhee Pass, and Raynolds Pass could receive between 2 and 7 inches of snow. In the East Glacier Park region, including Logan Pass and Marias Pass, snowfall totals could reach 6 inches or more above 7,000 feet from late Saturday night through Sunday morning.
Officials caution that travel in Glacier National Park, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road, may become difficult or impassible. Forest roads in southwest Montana could also see muddy or slushy conditions, creating hazards for backcountry travelers.
The National Weather Service notes that power outages are possible where heavy snow collects on trees and power lines still carrying early fall foliage. Hypothermia and frostbite risks are heightened for anyone outdoors without proper gear, as conditions are expected to be cold, wet, and raw.
Residents and visitors are urged to monitor updated forecasts and prepare for potentially disruptive winter weather as the system moves in.
