Epic Montana Spring Snow: 3 Feet Possible for Absaroka, Beartooth Mountains
Far southern Park and Gallatin Counties could see up to THREE FEET of fresh snow by noon on Tuesday in the high elevations. Lower elevations, including Yellowstone National Park will probably receive many inches of heavy, wet snow as well.
Many parts of Montana have been under raining conditions for several days which is fantastic news in delaying fire season. But THIS Spring snowstorm for the mountain ranges is excellent news for the longer term snowpack.
According to the National Weather Service:
- WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON TUESDAY.
- WHAT...Heavy wet snow expected.
- Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 feet above 8000 feet, with locally higher amounts, greatest on northeast facing slopes.
- Winds gusting as high as 40 mph.
- WHERE...Absaroka/Beartooth Mountains.
- WHEN...Until Noon Tuesday.
- IMPACTS OF THIS WINTER STORM WARNING...Recreation in the high country will be impacted by severe winter conditions.
- Heavy snow will fall over the high elevations of the Beartooth Highway.
- For the latest road conditions, you can always call 5 1 1.
By the time Monday comes to a close, Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding areas will have received several inches of fresh snow too. (IMPORTANT TO NOTE: the worst weather and driving conditions for the Park area are expected to end by late Monday morning, although snow may continue to fall.) According to the National Weather Service:
- WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM THIS AFTERNOON.
- WHAT...Snow. Total snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches, especially above the 8000 foot elevation.
- WHERE...Yellowstone National Park and Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains.
- WHEN...Until 3 PM Monday.
- IMPACTS...Travel impacts likely over both Togwotee and Teton passes.
The real concern here is the Absaroka and Beartooth Ranges. Use extreme caution if you absolutely must drive near the areas as roads will be snow covered and very slushy. High winds will also play a significant part in this particular Spring storm. Stay safe out there!