Thanksgiving Travel Weather Warning: New Details for Montana

BUTTE, MT - As families across Montana prepare for Thanksgiving festivities, Mother Nature has a chilling surprise in store.

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A combination of light snow and icy conditions is set to create treacherous travel across the state, making this holiday journey anything but smooth.

Snow, Ice, and Trouble on the Horizon

Starting early this week, light snow showers have been blanketing parts of Montana, with forecasters warning that it’s only the beginning.

While snowfall totals may seem manageable, ranging from a dusting to a few inches, the real danger lies in what you can’t see: slick, icy roads that could turn your Thanksgiving commute into a nightmare.

Temperatures will hover just below freezing in many areas, a perfect recipe for the infamous "black ice." Combine this with Montana's winding roads and unpredictable weather patterns, and you’ve got a Thanksgiving travel situation that’s downright perilous.

Montana’s Hotspots for Trouble

• Central Montana: Light snow and icy patches will dominate, particularly in Great Falls, Lewistown, and surrounding areas. Even brief snow showers could create hazardous conditions on untreated roads.

• Mountain Passes: If your plans take you over passes like Homestake, MacDonald, or Rogers, buckle up—these areas are expected to experience the most treacherous conditions.

• Eastern Plains: Light snow combined with gusty winds could reduce visibility, adding another layer of risk to your travel plans.

When and Where the Worst Hits

Meteorologists predict the slipperiest conditions will occur Wednesday night into Thanksgiving morning. For those planning to hit the road early to beat the rush, think again: those pre-dawn hours might be the most dangerous of all.

Safety First: How to Survive the Holiday Roads

1. Slow Down: Give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Speeding on icy roads is a recipe for disaster.
2. Be Prepared: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, water, and a flashlight.
3. Stay Informed: Check local forecasts and road reports before heading out. Apps like MDT’s road conditions tracker can provide real-time updates.
4. Avoid Risky Passes: If possible, reroute your journey to avoid mountain passes altogether.

Thanksgiving Travel Tips

Experts are urging Montanans to plan ahead and consider postponing travel if conditions worsen. While everyone loves turkey and pumpkin pie, safety should be the top priority. After all, no holiday meal is worth a run-in with an icy ditch.