Billings, MT – A strong early-season winter storm is bringing heavy mountain snow to southern Montana Sunday, with travel and recreation impacts expected to continue through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. MDT Sunday for the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains and the Crazy Mountains, including the Cooke City area.
Forecasters report an additional 5 to 10 inches of snow, with the heaviest accumulations above 8,000 feet and on north-facing slopes. The snow is expected to make high-elevation travel difficult and recreational activity hazardous due to slippery, snow-covered trails and reduced visibility.
Those planning to visit mountain passes or backcountry areas are urged to check local conditions and call 511 for the latest road updates before traveling.
This early October storm marks one of the first significant snow events of the season for southern Montana’s high country, signaling the start of more winter-like conditions in the weeks ahead.