Montana Faces 3 Feet of Snow As Winter Storm Warnings Issued

Residents in some areas of Montana could face snow levels as high as 3 feet after winter storm warnings were issued for parts of the state.

The National Weather Service issued an alert for parts of Montana and Wyoming, telling residents that conditions may be hazardous when it comes to travel.

Why It Matters

The NWS issues warnings in situations where harsh weather could create hazardous travel conditions, heavy snow accumulations, and potential power outages. The most recent warning for the region stretches across multiple states, with authorities urging people to limit travel and prepare for large amounts of snow and rain in the area.

What To Know

The areas under winter storm warnings can expect snowfall totals between 6 and 12 inches, with some regions experiencing even greater accumulations, according to the NWS.

The Service said on Sunday that Pryor and the northern Bighorn Mountains in Montana would be affected by the weather, along with the northeast section of the Bighorn mountain range in Wyoming.

Wind gusts up to 35 mph may lead to blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility.

Montana Snow — Mist rises above ice floes on the Yellowstone River on December 22, 2022, in Paradise Valley, Montana.

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In the statement, the service said: “Snow levels will vary quite significantly
across the area, resulting in significant north-to-south discrepancies in amounts across similar elevations.

“The snow is forecast to be a heavy and wet variety, which will be difficult to shovel.”

Other weather advisories for Nevada and California also warned of heavy snow at altitudes above 5,000 feet, with the NWS saying that there was the potential for “slippery road conditions” and “gusty winds” in the Frazier Mountain communities and upper Sierra.

An NWS map showed that large stretches of the California-Nevada border between South Lake Tahoe and Bridgeport were likely to see some snowfall, although any accumulation is expected to be fewer than 12 inches.

What People Are Saying

In the winter storm warning, the National Weather Service said: “Recreation in the high country could be impacted by heavy accumulating snow. Expect blowing snow to cause reduced visibility.

“Total snow accumulations of 1-3 feet, with up to 4 feet in the peaks. Highest amounts will favor the north- and east-facing aspects. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph.

“If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. For the latest road conditions, call [transport hotline] 511.”