Warm Weather And Mountain Snowpack [AUDIO]

Will the recent spate of above-normal temperatures mean a reduction in western Montana's snowpack?

National Weather Service hydrologist Ray Nickless says at this point, snowpack in the mountains around Missoula is still between 90 and 95%, however the snow in the Bitterroots is between 80 and 90% of normal, and needs more snow before the spring thaw.

Nickless says it is difficult to forecast what the upcoming fire season might be at this point in the year, as he says February and March could still bring significant moisture to the area.

Hydrologist Ray Nickless