Missoula, MT – The National Weather Service has issued multiple Winter Storm Warnings across southwest and west-central Montana and north-central Idaho, where a series of winter storms is forecast to deliver significant snowfall and strong winds through Saturday afternoon.
Forecasters from the Great Falls and Missoula offices report that the first wave of heavy snow will continue through Friday morning, followed by a brief lull before a stronger, widespread system moves in Friday evening through Saturday.
Snow totals are expected to range from 8 to 12 inches at pass level to up to 24 inches above 7,000 feet, especially across the Gallatin, Madison, Bitterroot, and Sawtooth Ranges. Key travel routes such as Bozeman Pass, Kings Hill Pass, Lolo Pass, and Lost Trail Pass are likely to experience dangerous driving conditions with visibility dropping below one mile at times.
In northwest Beaverhead County and the Seeley Lake region, 8 to 15 inches of snow are forecast by Saturday afternoon, while Idaho’s Clearwater Mountains could see 9 to 18 inches, with 2 to 6 inches in nearby valleys. Winds of 40 to 45 mph will further increase the risk of blowing and drifting snow.
The NWS urges travelers to avoid mountain routes if possible, carry emergency supplies, and monitor 511 road condition updates in both states.
