Great Falls, Montana – Snow is spreading across southwest Montana overnight, turning stretches of Interstate 90 slick between Bozeman and Whitehall and creating hazardous mountain pass travel through 11 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Great Falls, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 11 p.m. MST Wednesday for the Gallatin Valley, Madison River Valley, Beaverhead Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. Valley locations, including Bozeman, Three Forks, Dillon and Ennis, can expect 1 to 3 inches of accumulation. In the mountains south of I-90, totals may reach 6 inches above 7,000 feet.
Bozeman Pass, Battle Ridge Pass, Deep Creek Pass and routes near Big Sky and West Yellowstone could become snow-covered, with chain requirements possible for some vehicles. Monida Pass, Chief Joseph Pass and Targhee Pass may see reduced visibility and slick pavement during heavier bursts.
Even light snowfall can create icy bridges and shaded roadway hazards, especially during the Wednesday morning and evening commutes. Drivers should slow down, increase following distance and check conditions by calling 511 or visiting the Montana Department of Transportation road report site.
Snow showers will persist through the day before tapering late tonight. Additional advisories may be issued if snowfall intensifies over higher elevations.
