Missoula, MT – A widespread winter storm is set to bring accumulating snow and rapidly deteriorating travel conditions across western and northwest Montana beginning this afternoon, with impacts stretching into Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, multiple Winter Weather Advisories will take effect between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Monday, covering the West Glacier Region, Potomac/Seeley Lake Region, Flathead and Mission Valleys, the Lower Clark Fork Region, and the Kootenai/Cabinet Region. Advisories extend through noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday, depending on location.
Forecast totals vary significantly by elevation. Most lower valleys can expect 2 to 5 inches, while the Seeley–Swan Valley may see up to 10 inches. Higher terrain in the Mission and Swan Ranges could receive 10 to 16 inches, with the Whitefish and Lewis Ranges likely picking up 5 to 10 inches.
Communities and road corridors expected to see impacts include Essex, Polebridge, Bigfork, Seeley Lake, Condon, Polson, Trout Creek, Thompson Falls, Plains, Libby, Eureka, and stretches of I-90 from East Missoula to Lookout Pass, as well as Highway 83, Highway 200, Highway 2, Highway 37, and Highway 93.
Daytime melting followed by sub-freezing temperatures after dark is likely to create black ice, especially on bridges, shaded areas, and mountain passes. Slick conditions are expected to worsen Monday night and may affect both the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes.
Moderate winter weather impacts—such as slowdowns, closures, and disruptions to routine travel—are possible across the region. Drivers should expect snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and changing conditions with elevation.
