textproduct: Missoula
This forecast discussion was created in the public domain by the National Weather Service. It can be found in its original form here.
DISCUSSION
KEY MESSAGES:
- Quick-moving system continues to bring some snow to north- central Idaho and western Montana this morning.
- Ridge of high pressure this weekend
- Next system at start of next week bringing mountain snow and mixed valley precipitation.
A weak disturbance continues to move through the Northern Rockiest this morning. The band of snow associated with the disturbance is currently stretched from Lowell Idaho up to Marias Pass Montana and will continue to move off to the east during the morning hours. This feature is causing light to moderate snow. This light snow will cause some snow covered and icy road conditions for this mornings commute so be prepared.
A ridge of high pressure will be sliding over region this weekend with the potential for valley inversions to develop leading to the formation of patchy fog and/or low stratus.
The models are still on track showing the upper level flow to become southwesterly by Monday into Tuesday with a decent fetch of subtropical moisture streaming into the Northern Rockies. The mountains have the potential of receiving a decent amount of snow (greater than 70% chance of more than 4 inches in 24hrs). While the valleys will experiencing a wintry mix for snow, freezing rain and rain.
A disturbance from the northwest is expected by mid week causing snow levels to drop back to valley floors, but the stream of moisture will also be pushed out of the region. Westerly flow aloft is expected through the remainder of the work week causing off and on light snow showers.
AVIATION
A band of snow will continue to move through the Northern Rockies this morning. The band is currently extending across Idaho county into west central Montana. The snow has already passed through KGPI. KMSO and KHRF are expected to experience reduced visibility and lowered ceilings from 12z to 15z this morning. KBTM and KSMN are expected to be impacted by this feature between 15z to 18z. A few showers will linger across the region during the afternoon.
MSO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES
MT...None. ID...None.
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