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Winter Storm Watch Issued: Heavy Snow, Gusty Winds Expected

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Southern Rocky Mountain Front, Southern High Plains, Upper Blackfoot and MacDonald Pass, and Gates of the Mountains from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon, with heavy wet snow and gusty winds expected.

Staff Writer
10/08/2026 · Lewis and Clark County edition

Residents in the Southern Rocky Mountain Front, Southern High Plains, Upper Blackfoot and MacDonald Pass, and Gates of the Mountains should prepare for severe winter weather. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Great Falls, MT has issued a Winter Storm Watch effective from Saturday afternoon, October 9, 2026, until Sunday afternoon, October 10, 2026.

Heavy, wet snow is possible, with total accumulations of up to 9 inches expected below 6000 feet and 8 to 12 inches above 6000 feet. Gusty winds reaching up to 45 mph are also anticipated. These conditions could make travel very difficult, particularly over mountain passes, and backcountry conditions may become very dangerous. The combination of wet snow and strong winds may lead to downed tree limbs and power lines.

A snow band may develop across parts of Central Montana, potentially causing localized higher snowfall rates and accumulations. The NWS advises the community to monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this developing situation.

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