textproduct: Missoula

DISCUSSION

KEY MESSAGES:

- Cold temperatures through Monday morning.

- High pressure at times this week, but more unsettled by next weekend.

Temperatures across the Northern Rockies will remain below seasonal averages thanks to the current modified Arctic air mass in place. Highs today may struggle today, mirroring yesterday's performance. With mostly clear skies tonight, temperatures will fall to the single digits in the western Montana valleys and Lemhi County. Several below zero readings will be possible.

The pattern shifts early in the week as a high-amplitude ridge of high pressure builds inland from the West Coast, but with periodic shortwaves moving through. The first one on Monday will bring a fair amount of clouds by the afternoon which could keep highs from reaching their full potential.

By Tuesday, the ridge building over the area will reinforce the dry, stagnant pattern we have seen throughout January. Low clouds or fog formation is possible Tuesday night. Though this ridge may be more like a "dirty ridge" Wednesday through Saturday. This would bring weak shortwaves moving through the region, bringing increased cloud cover and rounds of light precipitation.

AVIATION

Expect colder than average temperatures across the region today with mainly VFR flying. A few locations may hang onto some mid-cloud along the Divide. With clearing skies tonight, temperatures will fall to to the single digits above and below zero across western Montana. Patchy valley fog is possible across northwest Montana areas. VFR conditions are expected Monday, though a weak wave will bring more mid-cloud by the afternoon. Winds will generally be light.

MSO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES

MT...None. ID...None.