Montana will see a noticeable warm-up today along with increasing winds, especially across the Rocky Mountain Front and areas west of I-15.

The National Weather Service reports that snow will begin developing along the Continental Divide later today and spread across much of the state by early Tuesday.

Winds Strengthen This Afternoon and Evening

A shift in the weather pattern will bring stronger winds to parts of the state, with the most significant gusts expected:

• Along the Rocky Mountain Front
• Across the plains west of I-15

These winds may cause isolated areas of blowing snow, reducing visibility in open country and along exposed stretches of highway.

Snow Begins Along the Continental Divide, Moves East Overnight

Snowfall will first develop this afternoon and evening near the Continental Divide. As the system organizes, snow will gradually spread eastward, reaching:

• Central Montana valleys
• North-central Montana
• Southwestern Montana

Snow is expected to reach valley floors by Tuesday morning, potentially affecting the early commute.

Forecasters increased precipitation probabilities (PoPs) across much of North-central, Central, and Southwestern Montana to reflect the latest high-resolution guidance, indicating growing confidence in an expanding area of snowfall tonight.

Cold Weather Advisory Cancelled

The Cold Weather Advisory previously in effect for parts of the state has been cancelled. Wind chills have moderated, remaining warmer than –20°F across the region, with no expectation they will drop back to –25°F or colder.
This marks a temporary break from the extreme cold experienced over the past several days.

Forecast Outlook

• Tonight: Snow developing along the Divide, spreading east; windy in the west.
• Tuesday: Snow continues for central and southwest areas early; gradual tapering late day.
• Rest of the Week: Periods of colder air return, with additional chances of light snow later in the week.

Forecasters say the rest of the forecast remains on track, with no major deviations expected at this time.