GREAT FALLS, Mont. – A powerful early-season storm will bring snow and dangerous winds to portions of north-central and northwest Montana late Sunday through Monday morning, affecting travel through mountain passes from Glacier National Park to the Little Belts. The National Weather Service in Great Falls has issued Winter Weather Advisories through noon Monday for both the East Glacier Park Region and the Little Belt and Highwood Mountains.
According to the Weather Service, the East Glacier area could receive up to 10 inches of snow at Logan Pass, with 1 to 3 inches expected around Marias Pass and East Glacier Park. Winds may gust up to 70 mph, capable of knocking down branches and making driving hazardous for high-profile vehicles. Farther south, the Little Belt and Highwood Mountains will see 2 to 4 inches of snow, with up to 6 inches near Kings Hill Pass, along with gusts near 40 mph.
Montana Department of Transportation officials warned that tire chains may be required on some mountain routes, including U.S. Highway 2 and U.S. 89, where slick and snow-covered roads are expected overnight. Travelers are urged to check 511 for current conditions and delay non-essential mountain travel until Monday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, snow will taper off by midday Monday as temperatures slowly climb, though strong winds may persist along the Rocky Mountain Front.
