Full Notification

...SERIES OF WINTER STORMS TO AFFECT THE MOUNTAINS AND PASSES THROUGH THE SATURDAY... .A series of winter storms will begin to push into North Central and Southwestern Montana today, with snow beginning over the higher terrain early this afternoon. Today's snowfall will focus on the Mountains of Central and South-Central Montana, with 4 to 8 inches over both Kings Hill and Bozeman Passes today, with higher amounts above pass level. A period of lighter snowfall is expected Friday morning and afternoon, with more widespread heavy snow returning to the area around sunset Friday. Snow will continue across the area Friday night into Saturday evening, with an additional 6 to 12 inches expected over the passes and higher amounts above pass level.

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Snowfall totals of 4 to 8 inches at pass level through tonight with an additional 5 to 12 inches at and above pass level Friday and Saturday. Total snow accumulations between 10 and 20 inches. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Big Belt, Bridger and Castle Mountains, Little Belt and Highwood Mountains, and Gallatin and Madison County Mountains and Centennial Mountains.

* WHEN...From 11 AM this morning to 5 AM MST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult and tire chains may be required for some vehicles. Those in the backcountry should ensure they are prepared for dangerous conditions.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Significant travel impacts to the Thursday and Friday commutes are possible for Bozeman Pass and along Highway 191 south of Bozeman.

* AFFECTED AREAS: LITTLE BELT AND HIGHWOOD MOUNTAINS ... BIG BELT, BRIDGER AND CASTLE MOUNTAINS ... GALLATIN AND MADISON COUNTY MOUNTAINS AND CENTENNIAL MOUNTAINS

Instructions:

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 5 1 1 or visiting the MDT Road Report website. Remember, a Winter Storm Warning means that there is at least an 80% chance of impactful winter weather conditions during the warning period.