Billings, Montana – Travel and outdoor activity in Montana’s high country are becoming increasingly dangerous this morning as heavy snow and powerful winds combine to create near whiteout conditions across the Absaroka, Beartooth, and Crazy Mountains.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. Monday for the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains and the Crazy Mountains. Snow accumulations of 10 to 20 inches are expected, accompanied by wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph that will cause widespread blowing and drifting snow.
The most severe impacts are expected along routes between Mammoth and Cooke City, where visibility may drop sharply at times and travel could become very difficult to impossible. Backcountry recreation, including snowmobiling and skiing, is strongly discouraged as deep snow and limited visibility increase the risk of becoming stranded. Exposed ridgelines and passes will see the worst conditions through the afternoon hours.
Emergency managers warn that conditions can deteriorate rapidly, especially during periods of heavier snowfall combined with strong gusts. Anyone already in the high terrain should be prepared for prolonged delays and rapidly changing weather.
Snow intensity begins to ease late this afternoon, but blowing snow and hazardous travel may persist even after snowfall tapers. The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 5 p.m., and additional advisories could follow if conditions linger into the evening.
