Billings, Montana – A more active storm pattern building across the Northern Rockies ahead of St. Patrick’s Day could bring accumulating mountain snow and periods of rain or wet snow to lower elevations across Montana between March 11 and March 17.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, much of Montana falls within a 40-50% probability zone for above-normal precipitation during the 8-14 day period. Temperatures are projected to trend near seasonal averages statewide, meaning elevation will play a key role in determining precipitation type.
In Billings and along the I-90 corridor, daytime highs in the upper 30s and 40s may support rain during daylight hours, with wet snow mixing in overnight as temperatures dip toward freezing. Bozeman, Livingston and areas near mountain passes such as Bozeman Pass and Homestake Pass could see steadier snowfall, especially during periods of heavier precipitation. Farther west toward Missoula and Kalispell, valley rain may transition to snow at night if colder air deepens behind passing systems.
Travelers crossing higher elevations, including Lookout Pass and MacDonald Pass, should prepare for winter driving conditions at times, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Residents across Montana should monitor changing road conditions and be prepared for rapid shifts in precipitation type. Additional updates are expected as the March 11-17 window approaches and storm timing becomes more defined.
