Libby, MT – Residents across northwest Montana are bracing for a major winter storm expected to bring up to 18 inches of snow, gusty winds, and hazardous travel from early Sunday through Monday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 2 a.m. Sunday to noon Monday for the Kootenai and Cabinet Region, including Highway 2 from Kalispell to Libby, Highway 56 (Bull Lake Road), Highway 37 (Eureka to Libby), and Highway 93 (Eureka to Whitefish).
Forecasters warn of 6 to 12 inches of snow in the mountains, with 12 to 18 inches possible in the Cabinet and Purcell ranges. Higher valleys could see 2 to 5 inches, while lower elevations may receive up to an inch. Easterly winds of 25 to 35 mph—with gusts up to 50 mph in high terrain—could worsen conditions and down power lines.
The weather service cautioned that “dangerous or impossible traveling conditions” are likely, especially in backcountry areas. Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for potential power outages caused by heavy, wet snow.
The heaviest snow and wind impacts are expected late Sunday into early Monday, with slick spots likely between Happy’s Inn and Marion Sunday evening.
