Blizzard Warning, Montana

How much

Snow across the area

Up to 6 inches

Wind gusts

Up to 80 mph Blowing snow on open roads

Map

Details from the National Weather Service

What

For the first Winter Storm Warning, heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations up to 6 inches. For the Blizzard Warning, blizzard conditions expected. There is a high likelihood of extreme impacts from strong winds and falling and/or blowing snow on US Highway 2 east of West Glacier to Marias Pass and in backcountry and mountain areas. Wind gusts up to 80 mph but up to 100 mph in the mountains. For the second Winter Storm Warning, heavy snow expected. There is a likelihood of major winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 20 inches. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph.

Where

Polebridge, Marias Pass, Glacier National Park, Highway 83 Bigfork to Swan Lake, Bad Rock Canyon, and Essex.

When

For the Blizzard Warning, until 9 in the morning this morning. For the Winter Storm Warning, from 9 in the morning this morning to noon MDT Saturday.

Impacts

Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening through Thursday morning. For EXTREME winter storm impacts, expect substantial disruptions to normal activities. Extremely dangerous or impossible traveling conditions. Travel in the impacted areas is not advised. Extensive and widespread closures and disruptions to infrastructure may occur. Life saving actions may be needed. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage. Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow.

Additional details

High winds will impact all elevations through this morning with wind gusts of 60 to 80 mph, though gusts to 100 mph are possible on the highest peaks.

Updates

1. Thursday 5:09 in the morning
   Snow totals raised from up to 4 inches to up to 6 inches. March 12, 2026
2. Wednesday 9:21 in the morning
   Blizzard Warning issued for Thursday overnight through Thursday morning. March 11, 2026