Western Montana Mountains Will Likely See Snow This Weekend

While we heard reports of snow in the Bitterroot earlier this week it appears the first snow of the season fell in Missoula on Halloween.

It's one of those stereotypes to say "It always snows on Halloween in Montana," but this year, it's proving true. Some western Montanans may not feel ready for the turn to colder temperatures because until now Missoula has had a very mild and temperate fall. But forecasts show that even if the valley floor won't get a lot of snow, there is "high confidence" that the mountains will get several inches.

The National Weather Service has issued a forecast indicating that the mountains will see snow from today, Thursday, October 31 through Saturday, November 2. Here's a look at the map:

weather.gov/mso

Estimated snowfall includes:

4" at Lookout Pass
2-3" Lost Trail Pass
<1" Homestake Pass

Other areas of Western Montana are likely to see less than an inch, but temperatures are expected to be cooler. A mix of rain and snow is possible in Missoula, which may lead to icy roads, especially overnight and in the early mornings when temperatures could be in the 20s.

Winter Weather Advisory: Southwest Montana 3 pm Thursday 10/31 - 6 am Friday 11/1

Just south and east of Dillion there's a winter weather advisory for the mountain ranges from this afternoon through tomorrow morning. This will affect:

Gallatin and Madison County Mountains
Centennial Mountains
- West Yellowstone
- Targhee Pass
- Raynolds Pass
- Big Sky

Anyone traveling should be cautious, especially if you'll be going over the Targhee or Raynolds Passes.

Today, October 31, is also the last day that Yellowstone National Park will be open for visitors in most areas of the park, according to a press release. Some roads are open year-round, but others are closed in preparation for winter activities. If you plan to visit the park during the winter you'll need to take the North Entrance in Gardiner or the Northeast Entrance in Cooke City/Silver Gate.