Blizzard conditions likely in Missoula and Bitterroot Valleys Today-Tonight
Issued: 9 AM MST, Monday Feb 25th
SUMMARY
Confidence is HIGH that blizzard conditions will occur in the Missoula valley, as well as through the Bitterroot valley, beginning this afternoon and lasting through roughly 9 PM MST.
Snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches/hour will occur this afternoon through this evening, and will combine with gusty winds to produce widespread white-out conditions throughout the entire Missoula valley. That being said, Downtown Missoula, the Rattlesnake, and the I-90 corridor from East Missoula through Alberton will be hardest hit by white-out conditions. An additional 8 inches of new snow could occur in the Missoula valley through tomorrow morning. Blowing and drifting of snow will last through tomorrow morning.
Lighter northerly winds will occur in the Bitterroot valley, but given the amount of snow they received overnight and the volume of snow expected today (another foot or so), white-out conditions will be very possible.
Treacherous conditions will last through the evening commute for both areas.
Winds will also cause bitterly cold wind chills.