BILLINGS, MT — Montana faces a full slate of winter weather hazards as a series of systems sweep across the state through Tuesday, bringing snow, ice, and powerful winds from the Rocky Mountain Front to the eastern plains.
The National Weather Service has issued multiple Winter Weather Advisories covering much of north-central and eastern Montana, including Fallon, Carter, Hill, Blaine, and Glacier Counties. Snow totals range from a light dusting on the plains to 8–12 inches along the Continental Divide and mountain passes such as Marias and Rogers Pass.
In the lower elevations, a mix of rain, sleet, and freezing drizzle will make for treacherous travel, especially near Havre, Shelby, and Cut Bank. Even if roads stay above freezing, bridges and overpasses are expected to ice quickly. East of Billings, the system strengthens this afternoon — winds up to 55 mph could produce areas of blowing snow and near-zero visibility through early Tuesday.
Motorists along I-90, I-94, and Highway 12 should prepare for slick stretches and blowing snow during both the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes. Loose outdoor items should be secured due to strong gusts.
By Thanksgiving Day, calmer, colder air settles in, marking Montana’s first widespread taste of early winter.
