WINTER STORM WATCH in effect from late Friday night through Saturday evening above 4000 feet for the Lower Clark Fork Region. Heavy snow possible above 4000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 9 to 12 inches possible over Lookout Pass, with over a foot in the higher terrain. Winds could gust as high as 50 mph. A period of intense snowfall greater than 1 inch per hour is possible Saturday morning.

WINTER STORM WATCH in effect from late Friday night through Saturday evening above 4000 feet for the West Glacier Region. Heavy snow possible above 4000 feet. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches possible for Marias Pass and the higher terrain. Winds could gust as high as 50 mph. Blowing snow could dramatically reduce visibility. Valleys below 4000 feet can expect 1 to 3 inches.

WINTER STORM WATCH in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening for Northwest Beaverhead County- Including the following locations: Chief Joseph Pass, Dewey, Wisdom, Wise River, and Big Hole Pass. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches possible. Winds could gust as high as 50 mph.

WINTER STORM WATCH in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening for Gallatin and Madison County Mountains and Centennial Mountains- Including the following locations: Big Sky, Raynolds Pass, West Yellowstone, and Targhee Pass. Total snow accumulations between 1 and 6 inches possible. Winds could gust as high as 55 mph.

HIGH WIND WATCH is in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening for the Madison River Valley, Ruby Mountains and Southern Beaverhead Mountains - including the following locations: Monida Pass, Norris, Cameron, McAllister, Ennis, and Jeffers. Southwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Blowing snow can cover roadways and reduce visibility.

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Scattered showers are hanging around but on a decreasing trend this morning. Areas around southwest Montana and at higher elevations could see additional light, slushy accumulation. Visibility could still be impacted over passes such as Homestake. Slick road conditions will also be possible, so use caution!

Western Montana starts to dry out briefly today. Partly cloudy skies, a few mountain showers and a breezy afternoon are expected Friday.

Active weather continues this weekend with another round of accumulating snow, primarily in the mountains, and below normal temperatures. With this system, valley locations likely start with a rain/snow mix. As a cold front pushes through, it will produce heavy snow and gusty winds, up to 50 mph, potentially impacting mountain pass travel in particular with low visibility and slick conditions. Portions of southwest Montana will also see strong winds combine with moderate to heavy snow, and although most valleys will only see minor accumulations - visibility issues could become a concern. These strong winds could cause downed trees and power outages. Mountain passes, especially along the MT/ID state line, could see 6-12" of snow accumulate. Lookout and Marias Pass could see the greatest impacts and Winter Storm Watches have been issued for this reason. If you have any mountain pass travel plans over the weekend, stay tuned!

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