Headline:
Winter Storm Watch issued March 9 at 12:35PM MDT until March 14 at 12:00PM MDT by NWS Missoula MT
Event:
Winter Storm Watch
Urgency:
Future
Effective:
March 9, 2026 - 11:35am
Expires:
March 10, 2026 - 2:00pm
Description:
* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible above 5000 feet. There
is a chance of major winter weather impacts. Total snow
accumulations between 1 to 3 feet. Wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph.
* WHERE...US Highway 12 over Lolo Pass, Dixie, and backcountry areas.
* WHEN...From Wednesday afternoon through Saturday morning.
* IMPACTS...Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and
blowing snow. The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs
may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages.
Whiteout and blizzard conditions are possible in backcountry areas
and may make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.
For MAJOR winter weather impacts, expect considerable disruptions
to normal activities. Dangerous or impossible traveling
conditions. Widespread closures and disruptions to infrastructure
may occur. Strong winds could cause tree damage.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will be climbing Wednesday into
Thursday afternoon, reaching as high as 5,000 feet near Lolo Pass
and 6,000 feet across the southern Clearwater Mountains. The worst
travel conditions are expected during the overnight and early
morning periods.
Instruction:
Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.
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.
Do not touch downed lines and report any power outages to your
electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways
and the possibility of downed trees and power lines.
Area Description:
Southern Clearwater Mountains
Forcast Office:
NWS Missoula MT
Sender: