Weather

Dangerous travel in parts of Montana

Posted: Nov 19, 2012 11:05 AM by Meteorologist Matt Elwell
Updated: Nov 19, 2012 11:11 AM

A smattering of watches, warnings and advisories are out for various parts of Western Montana.

A Blizzard Warning is in effect from 11 AM Monday through 5 PM Tuesday for elevations above 6000 feet along the Northern Rocky Mountain front. Accumulated snowfall between 14-20 inches is possible with sustained winds between 25-40 mph and gusts of 60 mph. Travel in this area will be extremely dangerous with blowing wind, poor visibility, and slick roadways. A high wind warning accompanies the Blizzard Warning along the adjacent plains with wind gusting near 65 mph at times.

A High Wind Watch is in effect Monday evening through Tuesday afternoon for Cascade and Judith Basin. Southwest winds are expected to be sustained 20-35 mph with gust of up to 60 mph possible. If you drive a high profile vehicle you should be aware that gusty winds may make travel difficult.

Wind Advisories have been issued for the Eastern Foothills of the Beartooth/Absaroka Mountains which includes Livingston and Near Nye from 5 PM Monday through 8 PM Tuesday. The strongest wind is expected to pick up this evening and continue through most of your Tuesday. Southwest winds are expected to be between 30-45 mph with gusts of 60 mph. Again, if you drive a high profile vehicle, be aware that driving conditions will be difficult at times.

We are looking at a couple of systems that are slated to move through the area over the course of the week. While most of the immediate area is looking at rain and warmer temperatures during the daytime hours, we could see some of the rain showers switch over to snow as we head into the evenings through Wednesday night into early Thursday. At this point, we don't expect severe driving conditions, but you should certainly tune into KBZK and KXLF to stay on top of you Thanksgiving and Black Friday forecasts!