Weather

Significant winter storm targeting southern Montana this weekend

Posted: Nov 30, 2012 12:38 PM by Meteorologist Mike Heard

Winter Storm Warnings are up for Southern Beaverhead, Southern Madison and Southern Gallatin counties now through 5am Monday morning.

Significant winter storm expected this weekend! There will be two rounds of snow associated with two different storm systems this weekend. The first is moving through today into this evening with a stronger system and a cold front passage expected Saturday night into Sunday. Heaviest snowfall is expected Saturday night into Sunday along with gusty winds.

Areas of greatest concern are along the Montana/Idaho state line from Monida pass to West Yellowstone over to Cooke City.

Snow accumulations of 10"-20" is likely above 6,000'.

Strongest winds are expected Sunday with sustained winds up to 40 mph and gusts to 55 mph and peak gusts up to 70 mph are possible over ridges and higher peaks. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds will cause significant blowing and drifting of snow with visibilities less than one mile at times.

Locations affected include: Targhee pass, Raynolds pass, Monida pass, West Yellowstone and eastern Idaho and Western Wyoming including Yellowstone National Park. The Absaroka Wilderness areas and Cooke City will likely see significant snow as well.

The STORMTracker Travel Watch link will provide you with MDOT road information and camera links on our web sites.