Billings, MT – Mountain regions across southern Montana and northern Wyoming are bracing for a powerful winter storm expected to drop up to 20 inches of snow through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning for the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, Crazy Mountains, Red Lodge Foothills, and the Bighorn Mountains. Gusts up to 45 mph will accompany snowfall, particularly along east and northeast slopes.
Snowfall is expected to begin as rain in lower elevations Wednesday evening, transitioning to heavy, wet snow overnight. Accumulations will range from 8 to 20 inches depending on elevation, with the heaviest snowfall forecast for late Wednesday night through Thursday. US-212 from Roberts to Red Lodge is among the major roadways likely to be impacted.
Travelers should expect hazardous conditions and possible road closures. Avalanche risk will rise in backcountry zones, particularly around Cooke City and the Crazy Mountains.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary mountain travel, prepare emergency kits, and monitor local updates. Recreationists are advised to delay backcountry plans due to increased avalanche risk and poor visibility through the storm’s duration.
