Weather

Winter Storm Watch issued

Posted: Nov 5, 2012 4:02 PM by Meteorologist Mike Heard
Updated: Nov 5, 2012 4:07 PM

GREAT FALLS - A Winter Storm Watch has been issued by the Great Falls NWS from Wednesday night through Saturday morning for SW Montana, Central Montana and Northern Montana.

Snow is expected to develop over SW Montana Wednesday night and expand northward throughout the day on Thursday and continue through Saturday morning. Snow could be heavy at times on Thursday and Friday.

Snow accumulations: 1' to 2' feet is possible in the mountains with 6"-12" in the plains and 3"-6" in the valleys of SW Montana.

North winds 15-25 gusting to 30 mph are possible across north central Montana. Blowing and drifting snow is likely. Visibilities could fall below ½ mile at times.

Mountain passes will quickly become snow covered and slippery at the onset of the snowfall. Warmer ground temperatures at the lower elevations could lead to melting of the snowfall on roadways Thursday afternoon only to become extremely icy Thursday night and Friday as the colder arctic air digs into the valley floors.

Those working and recreating outdoors need to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.