Arctic blast expected Sunday night

The weather will take a decided turn toward winter beginning Sunday night, the National Weather Service is warning. Temperatures are expected to slide below zero to the single digits with snow and blowing snow as two waves of arctic air are expected to spill over the Continental Divide.

“It’s going to turn on a dime and not let go,” said meteorologist Corby Dickerson.

Snowfall amounts in valley locations Sunday into Monday will be from 2 to 4 inches with fierce winds gusting up to 50 mph in places like the Bad Rock Canyon.

Higher terrain like Marias Pass and Glacier National Park is expected to see 10 to 14 inches of snow from the storm.

Temperatures will get even colder when a second wave passes Tuesday afternoon. Highs Tuesday and Wednesday will be -5 below to 5 above for many locations

Dickerson said temperatures aren’t expected to moderate and long range models are suggesting another round of arctic air and snow by Friday of next week.

This weekend, however, should be pleasant, with highs in the 40s and 50s Saturday and most of Sunday during the day until the front moves in.