Bozeman, MT – A powerful winter storm is set to blanket mountainous regions of Montana with heavy snow starting Wednesday afternoon, bringing up to 20 inches of accumulation in some areas through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Great Falls and Billings, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Wednesday afternoon until early Friday. Affected areas include the Big Belt, Bridger, Castle, Absaroka, Beartooth, and Crazy Mountains, as well as the Gallatin, Madison, and Centennial ranges. Locations such as Cooke City, Red Lodge, and Big Sky could see snow totals between 9 and 20 inches, with peak accumulation on east and northeast mountain slopes.
Winds may gust up to 40 mph, reducing visibility and increasing avalanche risk. Travel through mountain passes such as Bozeman Pass, Battle Ridge Pass, and US-212 near Red Lodge could become dangerous or impossible. Tire chains may be required for vehicles navigating steep, snow-covered routes.
Residents and recreational visitors should monitor local forecasts and prepare for difficult travel. Snowfall is expected to begin as rain Wednesday evening before transitioning into heavy, wet snow overnight. The most intense snowfall will likely occur Thursday across high elevations and foothills.
