Montana experienced a temperature rise into the 60s and 70s today, but a cold front will bring rain and snow, particularly in the mountains. Winter storm watches and wind advisories are issued, predicting colder conditions and snowfall accumulation. Warmer temperatures are expected again this weekend.
In Montana, temperatures rose into the 60s and 70s today, marking an increase of 8 to 21 degrees from the previous day. The weather featured clear to partly cloudy skies with light winds ranging from 5 to 15 mph, though stronger gusts were noted, reaching 20 to 30 mph in certain eastern areas of the state.
Currently, high pressure is creating pleasant spring conditions in Montana. However, this favorable weather will take a turn as a robust cold front is set to bring showers and thunderstorms shortly. As temperatures drop, rain is expected to transition into snow, prompting winter weather advisories for several mountain areas, including Butte, Georgetown Lake, and Seeley Lake, with accumulation estimates of 1 to 3 inches in lower elevations and up to 6 inches in the mountains.
The mountains of southwest and central Montana are now under a winter storm watch, anticipating snowfall ranging from 4 to 20 inches. Areas such as Bozeman Pass, Big Sky, and West Yellowstone fall under this warning.
Additionally, a wind advisory is in effect for the Missoula, Bitterroot, Mission, and Flathead Valleys, as well as Fort Peck Lake and regions around Glasgow and Jordan. Gusts are expected to reach up to 40 mph during Wednesday afternoon and evening.
Expect significantly colder temperatures on Thursday, with overnight lows predicted in the 30s to lower 40s, while highs tomorrow will be in the 30s and 40s for central and north-central Montana, and 50s and 60s elsewhere before the cold front arrives. Temperatures will subsequently rise again, reaching the 50s and 60s by this weekend.
The weather in Montana is presenting a striking contrast, swinging from warm spring temperatures into colder conditions with the onset of snow. A strong cold front is anticipated to bring rain showers and strong winds across the region, followed by significant snowfall in mountainous areas. Residents should prepare for winter weather advisories and a drop in temperatures, though warmer days are expected over the weekend.
Original Source: www.montanarightnow.com
