Missoula, MT – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for parts of western Montana from Thursday evening through Friday afternoon, with forecasters warning of heavy snow, strong winds, and rapidly dropping temperatures that could make travel dangerous.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, snow totals could range from 1 to 6 inches across the Flathead and Mission Valleys, Butte/Blackfoot Region, and Potomac/Seeley Lake area, with wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph. The combination of snow and wind may reduce visibility below a quarter mile at times.
Affected routes include Interstate 90 from East Missoula to Bearmouth, Highway 12 between Garrison and Elliston, and Highway 83 from Seeley Lake to Condon, along with Homestake Pass and MacDonald Pass. Temperatures are expected to drop rapidly Thursday night, potentially freezing road surfaces and creating slick conditions for the Friday morning commute.
The weather service warns that moderate to major winter impacts are possible, with the potential for road closures and travel disruptions. Drivers are urged to monitor updated forecasts and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas late Thursday and Friday morning.
