Severe Weather Alert: Rain and High Elevation Snow Tonight, NBC Montana

The region is bracing itself for a severe weather event, with periods of steady rain expected in the valleys and heavy, wet snowfall at elevations above 6,000 feet. Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories have been issued for several mountain ranges, where treacherous travel conditions, downed trees, and the risk of hypothermia are a significant concern. Those traversing Homestake, MacDonald, and Lost Trail Passes can expect a mixed bag of rain and snow, with snowfall becoming increasingly heavy overnight.

Valley locations south of Missoula and Helena can anticipate receiving an inch or more of rain by tomorrow, leading to rising stream levels and frigid conditions. Northwest Montana is set to experience the most significant rainfall from tomorrow through Monday, with 1 to 3 inches possible in certain areas, particularly around Glacier National Park and the Mission and Swan Mountains. Visitors to Glacier Park over the next 48 hours should prepare for raw and cold conditions, especially at Logan Pass and higher elevations.

The prospect of fog and low-lying clouds appears on the horizon for Tuesday, with unsettled weather expected to persist throughout the week ahead. As the situation continues to unfold, residents and travelers should remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest weather updates.

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for Western Lemhi County above 6,500 feet, with predicted snowfall ranging from 4 to 8 inches and up to 12 inches for the highest peaks. A similar warning is in effect for the Butte/Blackfoot Region above 6,500 feet, with forecast snowfall of 4 to 8 inches and 8 to 16 inches for the Anaconda Pintler Mountains.

In addition, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Eastern Lemhi County above 6,500 feet, with forecast snowfall ranging from 4 to 8 inches and up to 12 inches for the highest peaks. The Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains above 6,500 feet are also under a Winter Storm Warning, with predicted snowfall of 4 to 8 inches and up to 12 inches for the highest peaks.

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Northwest Beaverhead County, with forecast snowfall ranging from 2 to 6 inches at pass level and more than a foot possible in the higher terrain. Additionally, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the Elkhorn and Boulder Mountains, Ruby Mountains and Southern Beaverhead Mountains, and Gallatin and Madison County Mountains and Centennial Mountains, with forecast snowfall of up to 5 inches above 6,500 feet and localized amounts of over 9 inches near the highest peaks.

A Winter Weather Advisory is also in effect for the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains (including the Beartooth Highway), with forecast snowfall of 1 to 3 inches. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph tonight through Sunday, increasing to 55 mph on Monday, are expected.

A Flood Watch has been issued for the East Glacier Park Region, including the east side of Glacier National Park, due to potential rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches. This may lead to excessive runoff and flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas prone to flooding.

As the storm progresses, residents and travelers are advised to exercise extreme caution and stay informed about the latest weather updates. It is essential to prioritize safety and plan accordingly to minimize risks associated with the severe weather event.