A brutal winter storm is aiming for Montana and Idaho, and things could get dangerous fast. The National Weather Service is warning that travel might become downright impossible, with heavy snow, freezing rain, and powerful winds making roads a nightmare. If you’re in the path of this storm, now is the time to get ready.
What’s Coming for Montana
Montana is on high alert as a Winter Weather Advisory kicks in tonight at 8 PM and stays active until Friday at 11 PM. Areas like Livingston, the Beartooth Foothills, and Northern Sweet Grass are all in the danger zone. These places could see 3 to 6 inches of snow, but it’s not just about the snowfall—it’s the impact on travel that’s the big worry.
Interstate 90 from Livingston to Big Timber is expected to be particularly bad, with snow-covered roads and visibility dropping to near zero at times. Commuting on this stretch could feel like driving blind, and officials are urging drivers to stay off the roads if they can.
But if you think that’s bad, the mountains are in for even worse conditions. A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains and Crazy Mountains, where 10 to 15 inches of snow could pile up quickly. And with wind gusts hitting 45 mph, this won’t be the kind of snow you can easily brush off your windshield. Whiteout conditions could make even short trips dangerous, and avalanche risks will be high, making outdoor activities risky at best and deadly at worst.
Idaho Isn’t in the Clear Either
Idaho is bracing for the same winter onslaught. Starting Friday at 11 AM, central parts of the state will be under a Winter Storm Warning until Saturday morning. Heavy, wet snow is on the way, especially in the higher elevations, while freezing rain could coat roads at lower altitudes. If you’ve ever driven on icy roads, you know how quickly things can go wrong. Add 30 to 40 mph wind gusts, and mountain passes like Lookout, Lolo, and Lost Trail become accident hotspots. Idaho authorities are already advising residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary trips. The weight of the snow and ice could bring down power lines, leaving homes without electricity for hours or even days. Officials say it’s crucial to prepare now—don’t wait until the power goes out to wish you had stocked up.
What’s the Current Weather and What’s Next?
Right now, it’s 15°F (-9°C) and cloudy in Billings, Montana, but that’s just the calm before the storm. By Friday, the snow will be coming down hard, and wind chills could make it feel even colder. In Idaho, cloudy skies will give way to worsening conditions by Friday morning, with snow sticking around through Saturday in many places.
How to Stay Safe
- If you can stay home, do it. But if you have to travel, check road conditions first by calling 511 or visiting Montana’s travel info site. Make sure your car is packed with an emergency kit that includes blankets, food, water, and a flashlight—just in case you get stuck.
- At home, stock up on essentials like food, water, and warm clothes. Charge your devices and have backup power sources if possible. If the snow and ice bring down power lines, you’ll want to be prepared.
- And most importantly, stay informed. Keep an eye on local weather reports and any updates from emergency officials. With a storm like this, things can change quickly, and the last thing you want is to be caught off guard.
This isn’t just another winter day. For many, this could be a life-threatening event. Take it seriously, prepare ahead of time, and stay safe.
