After an unusually warm autumn, residents are bracing themselves for a sudden shift in conditions, dusting off their winter attire and preparing for altered driving circumstances.
The National Weather Service forecast indicates that the first significant snowstorm of the season is poised to impact several regions, including the northern Cascades, Rockies, and North Dakota
The National Weather Service has issued warnings of treacherous travel conditions on mountain passes due to heavy snowfall and icy roads resulting from melting snow that subsequently freezes as temperatures drop. The National Weather Service forecasted storm is anticipated to arrive in successive waves, commencing with rain at lower elevations in Washington and transforming into snowfall in the mountains. This snowy system will extend across northern Idaho, Montana, northwestern Wyoming, and North Dakota, lingering until Friday morning.
The recent convergence of cold air from northwestern Canada and a moist Pacific weather system has led to plummeting temperatures and snowfall totals, as the National Weather Service forecast predicts accumulations of up to 18 inches in Montana’s mountainous regions
Some elevated areas in the northern Rockies could witness snowfall over 2 feet. Meteorologist Matt Ludwig from the National Weather Service forecast in Great Falls has highlighted that the initial snowfall of the season is especially hazardous, as drivers are unaccustomed to the changed conditions following months of dry pavement. Consequently, residents have been rushing to secure snow tires and address issues with their underground sprinkler systems. This abrupt weather shift has prompted some schools, like Helena Public Schools, to alert families about potential bus delays and cancellations, urging them to be prepared for the first taste of winter.
The snow is expected to continue its advance across northwestern and north-central North Dakota, with potential significant snowfall in the Williston, Watford City, and Minot areas. In Bismarck, there is also anticipation of substantial snowfall after a bout of rain. Meanwhile, snowfall has already commenced in various regions, including Montana, Wyoming, and even parts of Canada.
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