Butte, MT – A fresh round of winter weather is expected to bring snow and dangerous wind gusts to western Montana, prompting advisories across the region through midday Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, the Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from midnight Friday until noon MDT Saturday. Affected areas include Butte, Missoula, Seeley Lake, West Glacier, and mountain passes such as Homestake, MacDonald, Lookout, and Marias.
Snow totals are forecast to range from 1 to 3 inches in lower elevations like Butte and Seeley Lake, with a 40% chance of up to 6 inches in some locations. Higher elevations above 4,000 feet could receive 8 to 16 inches. Wind gusts could reach 50 mph in the Butte/Blackfoot Region and 35 to 40 mph elsewhere, increasing the risk of blowing snow and fallen branches.
Drivers along I-90, Highway 83, and Highway 200 should expect hazardous conditions. Officials advise reducing speed and using caution, especially during the early hours Saturday when snowfall rates may intensify.
The storm front is expected to begin Friday evening in the western mountains before sweeping eastward. Residents can check road conditions via Montana’s 511 service and are urged to delay non-essential travel.
