Lewistown, MT – Roads across central and north-central Montana will turn slick within hours Wednesday night as snow and strong winds move in, creating hazardous travel through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Great Falls, a Winter Weather Advisory begins as early as 6 p.m. Wednesday in mountain areas and midnight in lower elevations, lasting until 6 p.m. Thursday. Snow totals will range from up to 3 inches in Fergus County to 5–9 inches across the Big Belt, Bridger, and Castle Mountains, with up to 12 inches possible on higher peaks. Wind gusts will reach 50 to 55 mph, increasing the risk of blowing snow and reduced visibility.
Travel impacts will intensify along key routes including Bozeman Pass, Marias Pass, and MacDonald Pass. Snow-covered pavement and slush are expected, with chain requirements possible for some vehicles in higher terrain. In Glacier National Park and along the Rocky Mountain Front, visibility may drop sharply at times due to falling and blowing snow.
Communities including Lewistown, Browning, East Glacier Park, Lincoln, and Boulder will see the most widespread impacts. Strong winds could down tree branches and trigger isolated power outages, especially where wet snow accumulates on limbs.
Drivers should slow down, allow extra travel time, and check Montana 511 road conditions before departing. Secure loose outdoor items ahead of the wind surge.
Snow and wind will gradually ease late Thursday, though some mountain areas may see lingering impacts into early Friday. Additional advisories could be issued if conditions intensify.
