Missoula, Montana – A colder and increasingly active late-January pattern could bring heavy mountain snow and widespread travel challenges across the Northern Rocky Mountains, impacting communities from western Montana into Idaho and northwest Wyoming.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the Northern Rockies are included in a slight risk for heavy snow from Saturday through the following Friday, signaling an increased likelihood of one or more impactful winter systems. Cold air is expected to remain entrenched, allowing snow to fall efficiently across both mountain passes and nearby valleys.
In western Montana, including Missoula and surrounding valleys, snow-covered roads could impact Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 93 during periods of steadier snowfall. Reduced visibility is possible, especially at higher elevations where snowfall rates can increase quickly.
Across southwest Montana, including Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley, elevation-driven enhancement raises concerns for hazardous travel along Interstate 90 and mountain routes leading toward Yellowstone. Farther south in northwest Wyoming, including Jackson and Teton County, heavy snow is likely in higher terrain, with dangerous conditions possible on Teton Pass and U.S. Route 26.
State transportation agencies urge travelers to monitor pass conditions closely, carry winter survival kits, and be prepared for rapid changes in mountain weather. With sustained cold expected, snow that falls is likely to linger.
More detailed snowfall outlooks and potential winter weather advisories are expected as the late-January window approaches, with clearer impacts emerging by early next week.
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