Hazard Report Provided By forecast.weather.gov

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Missoula MT
1235 PM MDT Mon Mar 9 2026

MTZ006-102100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.WS.A.0002.260312T0000Z-260314T1800Z/
Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains-
1235 PM MDT Mon Mar 9 2026

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY EVENING THROUGH
SATURDAY MORNING ABOVE 5000 FEET...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible above 5000 feet. There
  is a chance of major winter weather impacts. Total snow
  accumulations between 1 to 3 feet. Wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph,
  climbing to 60 to 80 mph along mountain ridgetops and crests.

* WHERE...Highway 93 Sula to Lost Trail Pass and Lolo Pass.

* WHEN...From Wednesday evening through Saturday morning.

* IMPACTS...Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and
  blowing snow. The strong winds and weight of snow on tree limbs
  may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages.
  Whiteout and blizzard conditions are possible in backcountry areas
  and may make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.
  For MAJOR winter weather impacts, expect considerable disruptions
  to normal activities. Dangerous or impossible traveling
  conditions. Avoid travel in the impacted areas if possible.
  Widespread closures and disruptions to infrastructure may occur.
  Strong winds could cause tree damage.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will be climbing Wednesday into
  Thursday afternoon, reaching as high as 5,000 feet near Lolo Pass
  and 6,000 feet near Lost Trail Pass. The worst travel conditions
  are expected during the overnight and early morning periods.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation.

Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely
necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter
storm kit along with you, including such items as tire chains,
booster cables, flashlight, shovel, blankets and extra clothing.
Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help
you survive in case you become stranded.

Do not touch downed lines and report any power outages to your
electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways
and the possibility of downed trees and power lines.

&&

$$

AL

Hazard Report Provided By forecast.weather.gov