GLASGOW, Mont. — The first week of December is shaping up to be a wintry rollercoaster across northeastern Montana, as snow, freezing rain, and dropping temperatures bring early-season travel challenges to the region.
The National Weather Service in Glasgow warns of light snow and patchy freezing rain developing today, continuing in waves through late week. Though accumulations remain light—typically less than an inch per round—the repeated cycle of melting and refreezing will make roads slick, especially during early morning hours. Temperatures will hover near the freezing mark, turning untreated surfaces into black ice traps by the evening commute.
Winds from the west will gust up to 20–25 mph, adding a biting chill to already cold conditions. By Thursday, another disturbance from the Pacific pushes across the state, bringing a renewed risk for freezing rain transitioning to snow. That system could linger into Friday night, potentially dropping a few inches of accumulation across the Hi-Line and Missouri River Valley.
Residents are urged to use caution on highways including U.S. 2, Highway 24, and routes near Fort Peck, where icy patches will likely redevelop after sunset. Drivers should plan extra time, keep de-icer on hand, and monitor temperature drops closely as flash freezing remains a major hazard this week.
Five-Day Local Outlook:
- Today: Slight chance of snow, high 34°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 13°F.
- Thursday: Freezing rain chance, high 32°F.
- Friday: Snow likely, high 28°F.
- Saturday: Light snow early, high 27°F.
