Winter has descended fiercely upon North Central Montana, with temperatures plummeting below zero. According to reports, Great Falls has recorded temperatures as low as eight degrees below zero this morning. The wind makes it feel significantly colder, reaching a wind chill of minus 43 degrees in Bozeman. Residents should be advised to dress warmly and stay informed about the risks associated with such extreme temperatures.
As the week unfolds, meteorologists warn that strong southwest winds will bring a change in temperature, raising the mercury to approximately 14 degrees by tonight. However, this increase will coincide with gusts of wind reaching 20 to 25 miles per hour. This interplay of wind and temperature is critical, as it assures that residents remain vigilant regarding the cold, wind chill, and potential travel disruptions.
Looking ahead, Central Montana may witness light snow accumulation, particularly east of I-15 as clouds build later today. Forecasts indicate a minor accumulation potential; however, blowing snow due to high winds will pose a greater risk to visibility on the roads. The weather pattern suggests alternating cold and warmer temperatures through the week, with snow expected later bringing both risks and necessary preparations for the residents.
A deep freeze has set in over North Central Montana as temperatures plummet to dangerous lows. Meteorologist Eric Johnson reported that regions are experiencing temperatures below zero, with Great Falls reporting a staggering eight degrees below zero this morning. The cold snap is accompanied by strong southwest winds that have drastically lowered the wind chill, making it feel like temperatures are reaching 43 degrees below zero in areas such as Bozeman. As the week progresses, residents can expect some sunshine and rising temperatures but with the cost of increased winds. Weather forecasts for today predict high temperatures will eventually reach around 14 degrees in Helena, although this warming will occur after sunset. Wind gusts of 20 to 25 miles per hour are expected to further impact the weather. Johnson noted that much of the cold air is not isolated to Montana, with other regions down to the Gulf Coast anticipating significant weather changes; Houston and New Orleans could see a winter storm today, with predictions of up to five inches of snow. As we look ahead, Central Montana is bracing for the potential of light snow, especially east of I-15, with a dusting to an inch expected overnight into tomorrow. However, the stronger concern remains the winds, which could gust over 40 miles per hour. This risk of blowing snow presents a visibility challenge for residents as the colder conditions continue, particularly on Tuesday and Wednesday. While warmer weather is anticipated later in the week, another colder air mass is expected to enter this weekend, bringing back the chill.