Billings, MT – A powerful winter storm is impacting Montana, bringing freezing rain and heavy snowfall across the region.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm began Friday night with rain and freezing rain, which is expected to transition into heavy snow by Saturday morning. Snowfall will persist through Sunday night, with totals ranging between 6 and 12 inches across much of the area. The Wolf Mountains could see up to 18 inches of accumulation by the time the storm subsides early Monday morning. Gusting winds up to 45 mph will create dangerous conditions, including blowing snow and reduced visibility.
The affected regions include Northern Big Horn, Southern Big Horn, Southern Rosebud, and the Bighorn Canyon area. Travel conditions are expected to be treacherous, with some roads becoming impassable. The NWS has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
Higher elevations, such as the Pryor and Bighorn Mountains, face even greater snow totals, with up to 2 feet expected by Sunday evening. Winds in these areas could gust as high as 50 mph. Recreation in the high country will likely be disrupted, and Highway 14 could face closures due to snow accumulation and low visibility.
Those planning outdoor activities are urged to inform others of their travel plans and carry emergency supplies. Road conditions can be checked by dialing 511.
The storm is forecast to taper off by Monday morning. Residents are encouraged to prepare for possible power outages and to keep essential supplies on hand.
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