Glasgow, Montana – Drivers across eastern Montana could face sudden whiteouts and near-zero visibility by late Tuesday as 50 mph wind gusts whip falling snow into blizzard conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Glasgow, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning for Valley, McCone, Prairie, Dawson, Richland, Daniels, Sheridan and Roosevelt counties. Snow totals may range from 1 to 4 inches, but powerful winds will be the main threat, with gusts up to 50 mph creating blowing and drifting snow.
Communities including Glasgow, Sidney, Glendive, Wolf Point and Plentywood could see visibility drop below one-quarter mile Tuesday evening. Highways such as U.S. 2, Montana Highway 200 and stretches of Montana Highway 13 may become snow-covered with drifting across open areas.
Forecasters warn that even modest snowfall will combine with strong winds to produce dangerous travel during the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Whiteout conditions may develop quickly in rural areas with little shelter from the wind.
Residents should delay travel if possible and prepare vehicles for winter driving. Check Montana road conditions before departure and allow extra time to reach destinations. Watches remain in effect through Wednesday morning, and warnings may be issued if confidence in blizzard conditions increases.
