Winter Weather Advisory In Effect Until 6 AM PST Tuesday

MISSOULA- Western Montana's relatively quiet winter is about to be shaken up with several feet of snow expected to fall in the mountains throughout the week. The National Weather Service office in Missoula has issued several watches and warnings for the area.


A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Tuesday night through Thursday morning for the Flathead and Mission valleys.


Snow showers will increase and become heavy at times through Tuesday and east winds will likely increase and could cause some visibility issues due to blowing snow. The snow will likely decrease Tuesday night, only to return again Wednesday morning.


Periods of light to moderate snowfall are expected throughout Wednesday with the possibility of heavy snow across the Mission Valley late Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning. Freezing rain may become possible Thursday morning, further accentuating the dangerous nature of the upcoming winter storm.


Snow accumulations from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning are expected to be in the range of 3" to 6". From Wednesday morning through Thursday morning an additional 6" to 8" of snow are possible with local areas potentially receiving more. At this time the heaviest snow appears possible across the southern Mission Valley.


National Weather Service In Seattle Has Issued A Winter Weather Advisory For The North And Central Coast...Which Is In Effect Until 6 AM PST Tuesday. A Winter Storm Watch Has Also Been Issued. This Winter Storm Watch Is In Effect From Wednesday Morning Through Wednesday Afternoon. The National Weather Service says Some Affected Locations include Forks, Pacific Beach, Aberdeen, and Hoquiam. With accumulations of Up To Two Inches Of New Snow Today...2 To 3 Inches Of New Snow Tonight. Significant Addition Accumulations are Possible Wednesday Morning.


Main Impact...Near Or Below Freezing Temperatures Will Result In Some Icy Roads This Morning And Again Tonight.


A Winter Weather Advisory For Snow Is Issued For The Lowlands When 1 To 3 Inches Is Likely To Fall In 12 Hours.


A Winter Storm Watch Means Conditions Are Favorable For Severe Winter Weather. If You Must Travel In The Watch Area...Carry An Extra Flashlight, Food, Water, And Blankets In Case Of Emergency.