Winter Storm Warning Issued for Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains Through Sunday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Billings, MT, has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains. This alert is effective starting at 6:00 PM MDT this evening and is scheduled to remain in effect until 6:00 AM MDT on Sunday, March 15.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains (Zone MTZ067) in Montana.

Expected Conditions

Residents and travelers in the region should prepare for prolonged periods of heavy snow. Total snow accumulations are expected to range between 1 and 3 feet, with the heaviest amounts likely on south and west-facing aspects.

In addition to the snowfall, extreme wind conditions are anticipated. Wind gusts could reach as high as 85 mph on Thursday. These conditions will likely lead to widespread blowing snow, which could significantly reduce visibility.

Timeline

• Onset: Snow is expected to begin this evening (Wednesday, March 11) on south and west-facing aspects.
• Duration: The storm is a multi-day event. Snow may not begin falling on the north aspects until Thursday night or Friday.
• Expiration: The warning is currently set to expire at 6:00 AM MDT on Sunday, March 15.

What You Should Do

Officials advise against being caught unprepared in the high country. Severe winter conditions are expected to make travel very difficult to impossible. Additionally, avalanche danger will increase due to the heavy accumulation. Very strong winds may cause extensive damage to trees and power lines. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.