Montana Faces Harsh Winter Conditions

Blizzard Warning Issued as Winter Storms Sweep Through the State

Montana is experiencing the full force of winter, with the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing multiple warnings for heavy snow and damaging winds.

First Warning: Heavy Snow and Damaging Winds

The first warning came from the NWS Missoula office on Tuesday, predicting:

• Heavy snow with accumulations:
• 2 to 5 inches in valleys
• 8 to 12 inches at higher elevations
• Damaging winds with gusts up to:
• 60 mph in lower areas
• 70 mph in higher terrain

The warning covered areas including Essex, Marias Pass, and Glacier National Park and was in effect until 11 p.m. local time on Wednesday.

Second Warning: Winter Storm Intensifies

On Wednesday morning, the NWS Great Falls office issued another Winter Storm Warning, effective until 11 p.m. that night. The warning covered the Continental Divide along the Rocky Mountain Front and predicted:

• 3 to 8 inches of snow in Marias Pass
• Higher amounts in Glacier National Park
• Winds gusting over 70 mph, making travel difficult and dangerous

Blizzard Warning: Non-Emergency Travel Advisories

Also on Wednesday morning, a Blizzard Warning was announced, effective from 4 p.m. that day until 6 a.m. Thursday. It covered over a dozen towns in northeast Montana and predicted:

• 1 to 3 inches of snow
• Winds gusting up to 70 mph, causing:
• Slippery road conditions
• Drifting snow
• Areas of whiteout conditions

The NWS advised against non-emergency travel due to the hazardous conditions.