Missoula, MT – A late-season winter weather system is poised to impact much of western Montana beginning Wednesday evening, bringing snowfall, gusty winds, and potentially dangerous driving conditions across multiple regions.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Wednesday to 9 a.m. Thursday for areas including Missoula, Butte, the Bitterroot Mountains, and the Glacier region. Snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are likely, with some areas possibly seeing up to 6 inches. Wind gusts may reach 50 mph, especially over exposed passes like Homestake and MacDonald.
Travel along major highways such as I-90 (East Missoula to Bearmouth), Highway 12 (Garrison to Elliston), and Highway 83 (Seeley Lake to Condon) is expected to be impacted. Higher elevations and mountain passes may experience reduced visibility due to blowing snow and rapid freezing of wet roads.
Commuters should prepare for disruptions Thursday morning, particularly in elevated areas like Lolo Pass and Marias Pass. Drivers are urged to slow down, leave extra time, and check Montana road conditions at 511MT.net.
This April snow event, while not unusual for Montana’s mountains, highlights the need for ongoing weather vigilance well into spring.
