Classic Spring Dump: 24″ Snow Possible For Montana Ranges By Thursday Night
The Tobacco Root, Elkhorn, and Boulder Mountains are just a few ranges that could get absolutely pummeled with fresh snow by Thursday night. Other Montana mountains may only see 6" to 12" of fresh snow. This next storm is classic 'snow roulette'.
CHECK THE LASTEST CONDITIONS VIA THE MDT WEBCAMS HERE
It will be very important to keep tabs on your local forecast on Thursday. This storm is not going to distribute snow evenly, and some mountain passes may become impassable at times, while others may only see a few inches. According to the National Weather Service:
- WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM WEDNESDAY EVENING TO MIDNIGHT THURSDAY NIGHT.
- WHAT...Heavy snow expected.
- Total snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches, with 1 to 2 feet expected over the Tobacco Root, Elkhorn, and Boulder Mountains.
- WHERE...Portions of central, north central, and southwest Montana.
- Total snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches above 6000 feet MSL and 3 to 6 inches below 6000 feet. Locally higher totals in excess of 10 inches possible above 7500 feet for the Island Park, Kilgore, Dubois, Spencer, Edie School, Small, and Lost River Range.
- Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches below 5000 feet and 4 to 8 inches above 5000 feet for Butte, Georgetown Lake, Highway 12 Garrison to Elliston, Homestake Pass, and MacDonald Pass.
- WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to Midnight Thursday Night.
- IMPACTS...Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous.
- Travel could be difficult and visibility at times could be below one half mile.
- Isolated power outages possible due to the heavy wet snow.
- Those in the backcountry should ensure they have appropriate knowledge and gear and may want to consider alternate plans.
- ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The snow will be most impactful during the nighttime and morning hours.
CHECK THE LATEST MONTANA ACCIDENT REPORTS FROM THE MHP HERE
Thankfully, for the dozens of Montana counties expected to get snow out of this storm, wind does not seem to be much of a factor. As always, if you don't need to travel during this storm period, stay off the roads. Conditions may change rapidly and drastically.