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By Sam Stevenson
Associate News Editor
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A late‑season winter system is bringing renewed snow and cold temperatures to parts of the northern Rockies, with forecasters warning that travel and outdoor conditions could become dangerous in higher elevations through the weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm warning for parts of Montana, alongside winter weather advisories for portions of Wyoming, as accumulating snow and gusty winds move through the region.
Winter storm warnings are issued when more severe and potentially dangerous winter conditions are expected, such as heavier snowfall and stronger winds.
Read More on Weather
Winter weather advisories cover less intense events, but still signal conditions that could disrupt travel and daily activities and require extra caution.
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Montana
The most significant impacts are expected in north‑central Montana, where the NWS in Great Falls said hazardous conditions could persist into Saturday.
A winter storm warning remains in effect for the Bears Paw Mountains and southern Blaine County until noon MDT Saturday.
Forecasters said snowfall totals could reach 1 to 3 inches in the mountains, with lighter amounts at lower elevations. Winds gusting up to 35 mph may blow falling snow, leading to reduced visibility and difficult driving conditions.
Officials warned that those with outdoor plans should be prepared for dangerous conditions, especially in exposed or higher‑elevation areas.
“Expect difficult driving conditions due to slush or snow-covered roadways,” the NWS said.
“Falling and or blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility at times. Those with outdoor plans should be prepared for dangerous outdoor conditions.”
Elsewhere in Montana, winter weather advisories remain in effect for eastern Toole and Liberty counties, where up to 2 inches of snow could make roads slick, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Drivers across affected areas were urged to slow down and use caution as conditions change overnight and into Saturday.
Wyoming
Farther south, the NWS in Cheyenne issued a winter weather advisory for the Sierra Madre and Snowy ranges of Wyoming.
The advisory is in effect from Saturday evening through early Monday, with 6 to 10 inches of snow expected and even higher totals possible near the peaks.
Forecasters warned that hunters, hikers and snowmobilers could become disoriented in falling or blowing snow, particularly with reduced visibility in the backcountry.
“Slow down and use caution while traveling,” NWS officials said.
Freeze Warnings Add To Late‑Season Hazards
In addition to snow, freeze warnings are in effect across parts of the Northern Rockies and inland Northwest, including areas of Idaho, Utah, Montana, Washington and Oregon, according to multiple NWS offices.
Forecasters warned that sub‑freezing temperatures, in some locations dropping into the teens and low 20s, could kill sensitive vegetation and damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.
Some areas could see multiple nights of freezing conditions, extending into early next week.
Residents were urged to take steps to protect plants, pipes and irrigation systems as the cold air settles in.
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