Winter Storm Warning: Up to 3 Feet of Heavy Snow and 60 MPH Winds Expected This Week
A rare late-June winter storm is expected to bring up to 3 feet of heavy snow and 60 mph winds to parts of Montana, creating hazardous travel conditions across the Northern Rockies.
Winter Storm Warning: Up to 3 Feet of Heavy Snow and 60 MPH Winds Expected This Week
A powerful late-season winter storm is set to bring hazardous weather to parts of the Northern Rockies this week, with forecasters warning of up to 3 feet of heavy, wet snow and wind gusts reaching 60 mph in higher elevations. The unusual storm, arriving just days before July, has prompted winter weather alerts across portions of Montana, with travel expected to become dangerous in affected mountain regions.
Heavy Snowfall Forecast for Montana
According to the latest forecast from the U.S. National Weather Service, the strongest impacts are expected in mountainous areas near Georgetown Lake in western Montana. Meteorologists say some higher elevations could receive up to 32–36 inches of snow between Sunday and Tuesday.
The snow is expected to be heavy and moisture-rich, increasing the risk of snow-covered roads, fallen tree branches, and reduced visibility for drivers. Forecasters advise residents and travelers to prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Powerful Winds Could Create Near-Whiteout Conditions
In addition to significant snowfall, the storm is forecast to produce wind gusts as high as 60 mph across exposed mountain areas. These strong winds may combine with falling snow to create blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions, making travel extremely difficult.
Weather officials warn that drivers crossing mountain passes could encounter:
- Poor visibility due to blowing snow
- Snow-covered and slippery roads
- Difficult driving conditions for high-profile vehicles
- Possible temporary road closures if conditions worsen
Travelers are encouraged to monitor road conditions before heading into affected areas.
Pacific Storm Moving East
The storm system originated over the Pacific Northwest before moving east into the Northern Rockies. While lower elevations are expected to receive rain, colder temperatures at higher elevations will allow precipitation to fall as heavy snow.
Although snow in the mountains is not unheard of during late June, the amount forecast with this system is considered highly unusual for this time of year.
Travel and Outdoor Safety
Officials recommend that anyone planning to visit mountain regions this week should:
- Check the latest weather forecasts before traveling.
- Delay non-essential mountain travel if possible.
- Carry emergency supplies if driving through affected areas.
- Dress for winter conditions, as temperatures will be much colder at higher elevations.
Outdoor recreation, including hiking and camping in higher elevations, may also become dangerous because of rapidly changing weather and accumulating snow.
Why This Storm Is Unusual
The storm stands out because it is arriving at the end of June, when much of the United States is experiencing summer weather. However, the highest elevations of the Northern Rockies can still experience winter-like conditions when strong Pacific storm systems combine with cold air aloft.
Meteorologists say these late-season events, while uncommon, can still produce significant snowfall in mountain regions even as nearby valleys remain relatively mild.
Final Outlook
The winter storm is expected to continue into early this week, bringing up to 3 feet of snow and 60 mph winds to parts of western Montana and nearby mountain ranges. Residents, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to stay informed and follow local weather advisories until conditions improve.
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