Winter Storm Warning Issued for Southern Montana: Heavy Snow Expected

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Great Falls MT, effective from noon Saturday, October 10, until 6 AM MDT Monday, October 12. Residents in the Southern Rocky Mountain Front, Southern High Plains, Upper Blackfoot and MacDonald Pass, and Gates of the Mountains should prepare for heavy snow and challenging conditions.

Total snow accumulations are expected to range between 10 and 20 inches across the affected areas, with the exception of the Lincoln valley, which could see up to 6 inches. Winds are forecasted to gust as high as 45 mph. These conditions could make travel very difficult, and the combination of gusty winds and wet, heavy snow may cause tree branches to fall, leading to isolated power outages.

Motorists who must travel are advised to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in their vehicles. For the latest road conditions, dial 511. Snowfall amounts will vary between grassy surfaces and roadways, particularly at lower elevations, with accumulations on non-grassy surfaces primarily occurring from the evening through late morning hours.