Missoula, MT – The National Weather Service in Missoula has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for parts of western Montana and central Idaho, effective from 9 p.m. Sunday to 9 a.m. Monday.
The advisory covers the Southern Clearwater Mountains, West Glacier Region, Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, and the Potomac/Seeley Lake Region. Snow is expected above 5,000 feet, with total accumulations of up to 5 inches—and up to 12 inches in isolated high-elevation areas. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph, creating challenging conditions for mountain travelers.
Forecasters note that heavy rain will precede the snow, potentially leading to muddy or slippery dirt roads before temperatures drop. The mix of rain, snow, and cold winds could lead to difficult backcountry travel and increase the risk of hypothermia for those outdoors.
Lower elevations below 5,000 feet will mainly experience heavy rainfall and chilly, uncomfortable conditions through Sunday night. Travelers are urged to use caution, slow down, and check 511 for updated road conditions before heading into mountain areas.
