Montana Winter Storm Update: New Snowfall And Extended Warnings

Montana's latest winter storm is moving much slower than originally predicted, with warnings for snow and wind being extended well into the first week of February. New snow, gusty winds of 40 MPH, and terrible visibility are affecting travel across Montana.

SOUTHWEST MONTANA: A WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY MORNING THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING.
WHAT...For the Winter Storm Warning, heavy snow expected.
Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.
For the Winter Storm Watch, heavy snow possible.
Total snow accumulations between 8 and 16 inches possible.
WHERE...Big Belt, Bridger and Castle Mountains and Gallatin and Madison County Mountains and Centennial Mountains.
WHEN...For the Winter Storm Watch, from Monday morning through Wednesday morning.
IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult and tire chains may be required for some vehicles.
Those in the backcountry should ensure they are prepared for dangerous conditions.
Blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Periods of snow expected Sunday through at least the middle of next week, with the most widespread and impactful snow Monday night through Wednesday morning.

EXTREMELY cold temperatures are the main focus for places like north central Montana. Wind chill factors will become dangerous and travelers should use extra caution.

NORTH CENTRAL MONTANA: A COLD WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 5 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 11 AM TUESDAY.
WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero expected.
WHERE...A portion of north central Montana.
WHEN...From 5 PM Sunday afternoon to 11 AM Tuesday.
IMPACTS...Hazardous wind chills as low as 30 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Overnight temperatures will range from 10 below zero to as low as around 20 below zero during this period.
Northerly winds will bring periods of wind chill as low as 20 below to 30 below zero, especially Sunday night and again Monday night.

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Southeast Montana may not get as cold as the rest of the state, but several inches of snow are possible through Tuesday morning in several counties.

SOUTHWEST MONTANA: A WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 5 PM SUNDAY AFTERNOON TO 5 AM TUESDAY.
WHAT...Snow expected.
Total snow accumulations between 4 and 7 inches.
WHERE...Custer.
WHEN...From 5 PM Sunday afternoon to 5 AM Tuesday.
IMPACTS...Plan on slippery and hazardous road conditions.
These conditions will impact the Monday morning and evening commutes.