Missoula, Mont. – Up to two feet of snow could bury parts of northwest Montana this weekend as a rare late-June winter storm targets Glacier National Park and surrounding high elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula and Great Falls, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 9 a.m. Saturday through noon Sunday for areas above 5,000 feet. Snow totals could reach 18 to 24 inches above 6,000 feet, including Logan Pass, Marias Pass, and sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road, with lesser amounts down to 5,000 feet.
Roads such as Highway 49 and Highway 89 near Kiowa and East Glacier Park may see closures due to heavy snow, falling trees, and 45 mph wind gusts. Officials warn of dangerous or impossible travel conditions, downed power lines, and potential power outages through Sunday.
Drivers are urged to avoid mountain travel, carry emergency supplies, and check Montana’s 511 road report before heading out. Park officials may restrict access to popular areas depending on conditions.
Snow will begin Saturday morning and gradually taper off by midday Sunday. Additional warnings or updates may follow if storm intensity increases.
