MISSOULA, Mont. – A powerful early-season storm is set to blanket much of western and central Montana in heavy, wet snow beginning Saturday evening and continuing through Monday morning. The National Weather Service offices in Missoula, Great Falls, and Billings have all issued Winter Storm Watches covering the Kootenai/Cabinet Region, Glacier National Park, the Little Belt and Madison Ranges, and the Crazy Mountains.
According to the National Weather Service, valley areas could receive 2 to 4 inches of snow, while higher elevations may see up to 15 inches, especially near Marias Pass, Logan Pass, and Highway 2 from Kalispell to Libby. Winds may gust up to 40 mph, creating blowing snow and whiteout conditions in mountain passes.
Forecasters warn of major winter weather impacts, including dangerous travel, power outages, and infrastructure disruptions. According to NWS Great Falls, “cold, wet, and snowy conditions will make outdoor activity hazardous and may cause hypothermia or frostbite if precautions aren’t taken.”
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary mountain travel from late Saturday through early Monday, particularly along Highway 93, U.S. 2, and Going-to-the-Sun Road. Those venturing into backcountry areas should prepare for rapid weather changes and potential closures.
The heaviest snow is expected Sunday night into Monday morning, with conditions slowly improving later Monday as the storm exits eastward.
