Weather

Winter Storm WARNING now in effect!

Posted: Nov 7, 2012 1:56 PM by Meteorologist Mike Heard

Winter Storm Warnings begin tonight at midnight and continues through 5am Saturday morning for all of SW Montana.

Snow will develop over the mountains tonight and will gradually reach the valley floor by Thursday morning.

Snow accumulations: Valleys 4"-8", Mountains and passes 8"-16".

Winds: North to East winds 10 to 20 gusts to 30 mph. Stronger winds are possible through the passes. Blowing and drifting snow is expected.

Visibilities could be reduced at times of heavy snow and gusty winds to a half mile.

Impacts: Roadways will become snow covered and slippery by the morning rush Thursday and continue to worsen into Thursday night and Friday as temperatures will fall well below normal. Wet roads will be icing significantly.

This is the first big snow storm of the season. Everyone should be prepared for hazardous travel conditions. Have a survival kit in your vehicle. Power outages are possible. Temperatures will be very cold by Sunday and possibly below zero. Use extreme caution with all outdoor activities.

Chief Meteorologist Mike Heard will have updates on this approaching storm tonight at 5:30pm and 10pm.