Libby, Montana – A potent early-season winter storm could dump up to eight inches of snow across northwest Montana this weekend, bringing hazardous travel and possible road closures through Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the Kootenai and Cabinet Region from Saturday evening through Monday morning. Forecasters warn of moderate to major winter weather impacts, with total snow accumulations between 2 and 8 inches possible, especially along Highways 2, 37, 56, and 93 from Kalispell and Whitefish to Libby and Eureka.
Snow is expected to begin late Saturday, becoming heavier overnight as colder air settles in. Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly, with slick roads, reduced visibility, and icy passes from Bull Lake Road to the Idaho border. “This system will likely make mountain travel difficult to impossible at times,” meteorologists said, adding that Monday’s morning commute could be severely impacted.
According to the Montana Department of Transportation, motorists should prepare for snow-packed highways, carry emergency kits, and delay nonessential mountain travel. Power interruptions and downed tree limbs are also possible where wet, heavy snow accumulates.
Residents should secure outdoor items, protect exposed pipes and plants, and monitor updated forecasts as this system develops. The storm marks one of the first significant winter events of the season for northwest Montana.
