A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for North Central Montana during the first week of February 2025.
This warning includes expectations of significant snow accumulation, with forecasts predicting 4 to 9 inches in central Montana and 2 to 8 inches in the western parts.
Temperatures are expected to drop, leading to a cold start to the week.
Residents are advised to prepare for potential travel disruptions and cold weather conditions.
As of today (February 2, 2025), North Central Montana is experiencing very cold temperatures.
A winter storm is currently affecting the region, with warnings in effect for much of western and central Montana. The forecast indicates that temperatures will continue to drop, with bitter cold expected in the coming days.
The extended outlook for North Central Montana suggests that the below-zero temperatures will likely last through at least the early part of the week:
Sunday (today): Falling temperatures throughout the day.
Monday and Tuesday: Bitter cold temperatures with highs in the negative single digits, zeros, and teens (Fahrenheit).
Wednesday: Cold temperatures may begin to moderate, but still likely below freezing.
Several factors are contributing to this prolonged period of below-zero temperatures:
Winter Storm System
A significant winter storm is moving through the area, bringing snow and very cold air.
This current warning affects
Cascade County below 5000ft, Fergus County below 4500ft, Gates of the Mountains and Judith Basin County and Judith Gap.
Arctic Air Mass
The region is experiencing an influx of Arctic air, leading to dangerously low wind chill factors.
La Niña Influence
The weak La Niña conditions this winter are associated with colder than normal temperatures in the Northern Tier states, including Montana.
While the immediate forecast shows a continuation of below-zero temperatures, the long-term outlook for February suggests that temperatures may eventually moderate.
The overall February forecast for Great Falls indicates an average temperature of 23°F, which is 4° below average for the month.
However, there are periods of milder weather expected later in the month, with some rain and snow showers and sunny days.
