Glasgow, MT – A fast-moving weather system is expected to create slick and hazardous travel conditions across northeast Montana late tonight into Tuesday, prompting a Winter Weather Advisory from 11 p.m. Monday to 2 p.m. Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service in Glasgow.
Forecasters caution that a developing mix of rain, freezing rain, and light snow will spread through the region overnight. With pavement temperatures likely dropping below freezing in some locations, even a thin glaze of ice could quickly form on roads, bridges, and sidewalks during the early morning hours.
Wintry Mix Expected to Create Rapid Ice Formation
The primary concern is freezing rain arriving before sunrise. Officials explain that “pavement temperatures may fall below freezing in areas receiving rain,” which can cause untreated surfaces to ice over quickly. Light snow may accompany the system early Tuesday, limiting visibility and adding a thin layer of snowfall on top of icy pavement.
Accumulations are expected to remain light, but the combination of moisture and cold roadway surfaces increases the risk of hazardous travel across rural and city roads.
Strong Winds Could Compound Travel Hazards
West winds will strengthen overnight and persist through Tuesday. Gusts may lower visibility during periods of falling snow and create additional challenges on exposed highways. Open stretches of roads across Montana’s northeastern counties are particularly vulnerable to drifting and rapidly changing surface conditions.
Areas Under the Advisory
The advisory includes Valley, Daniels, Sheridan, Roosevelt, McCone, Richland, and surrounding counties. Drivers in these regions should prepare for icy spots to develop late tonight and continue through the Tuesday morning commute.
Local emergency officials encourage residents to monitor updated forecasts and use caution if traveling early in the day. Slowing down, increasing following distance, and avoiding sudden braking can reduce the risk of sliding on icy pavement.
What Residents Should Watch For
Officials highlight the following potential impacts:
- Slippery roads and sidewalks due to freezing rain
- Reduced visibility from light snow and blowing snow
- Difficult travel conditions, especially on untreated highways
- Potential delays during the Tuesday morning commute
Motorists are urged to keep winter safety kits in their vehicles, check tire condition, and allow extra time for travel. Small changes in temperature can quickly shift conditions from wet to icy, making monitoring road updates essential.
Outlook for the Remainder of the System
While precipitation is expected to taper off by Tuesday afternoon, lingering slick spots may persist into the late day as temperatures struggle to rise. Winds are likely to remain elevated, continuing to influence visibility and road surface conditions in open areas.
As always, residents can find the most recent weather details and local updates through the National Weather Service office in Glasgow, which issued the advisory and ongoing guidance.
Stay Informed and Share Local Conditions
If you live in northeast Montana, let others know what road conditions are like in your area by sharing your experience in the comments below.
