Headline:
Blizzard Warning issued March 12 at 5:09AM MDT until March 12 at 9:00AM MDT by NWS Missoula MT
Event:
Blizzard Warning
Urgency:
Expected
Effective:
March 12, 2026 - 4:09am
Expires:
March 13, 2026 - 4:15am
Description:
* 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 AM MDT this morning. For
the Winter Storm Warning, from 9 AM 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.
Instruction:
Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely
necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter
storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains,
booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing.
Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help
you survive in case you become stranded.
A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds
are likely. This will lead to whiteout conditions, making travel
extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a
winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay in your
vehicle.
Area Description:
West Glacier Region
Forcast Office:
NWS Missoula MT
Sender: