An arctic weather system is expected to hit western Montana by Friday, according to an updated forecast by the National Weather Service on Thursday.
NWS officials tweaked their previous prediction but remain confident that a strong winter weather system will arrive tomorrow.
“We still expect measurable snowfall over mountain passes all the way down to valley levels,” NWS officials said in a news release.
In the greater Kalispell region, the biggest concern will be snow accumulations and blowing snow in higher terrain, especially
over Marias Pass. The valley will experience very cold temperatures and blustery winds through the weekend. This will be the coldest weather system so far this fall, according to meteorologists.
Flathead Lake waves are not expected to be as large as previously forecast, but a southwesterly flow will keep waters fairly choppy Friday afternoon through the night. By Saturday, when winds turn easterly, choppy waters should once again be expected.
Lincoln, Mineral and Sanders counties will see the greatest focus of snowfall, with even higher amounts along I-90 crossing Lookout Pass. Valley locations, including the corridors around Highways 200, 2, and 56, Baker’s Grade on Highway 28) will see many impacts from moderate to heavy snow accumulations Friday through Sunday, resulting in hazardous travel conditions, according to the NWS.
Monitor the NWS website for the latest updates.