Mountain Snow Persists in Western Montana as Snow Squalls Threaten, Atmospheric River Looms Next Week

Forecasters flag a multi-day atmospheric river next week that could raise snow levels, bringing heavy valley rain with deep high-elevation snow.

Overview

Moderate to heavy snow continues in the mountains through the weekend, while valleys see a rain and snow mix with temperatures hovering near freezing, especially in the Bitterroot.
Intense, narrow snow bands are likely late this afternoon and evening with gusty winds and 0.5 to 1 inch per hour rates that can drop visibility quickly and create hazardous travel.
The National Weather Service may issue snow squall warnings as bands develop, so travelers should monitor updates for rapidly changing conditions.
From late Monday through Wednesday, model guidance points to a strong atmospheric river delivering roughly 1 to 3 inches of rain, heaviest from Idaho’s Clearwater County into northwest Montana, with 0.25 to 1.5 inches in southwest Montana.
Above the rising snow level, 1 to 2 feet of additional snow is possible, and forecasters warn of ponding, sharp streamflow increases, and potential rock or mud slides.