Weekend storm to bring snow, rain

A potent Pacific weather system is expected to bring a mixed bag of precipitation to the Flathead Valley this weekend while area mountains could get a much-needed dose of fresh snow.

According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, several feet of snow is forecast to accumulate in the mountains. In the valleys a mix of snow, freezing rain or rain could wreak havoc for commuters across western Montana.

Snow levels will oscillate throughout the weekend, but the precipitation should generally remain as snow in valleys of northwest Montana, where several inches of snow is possible, the weather service reports. Precipitation will be widespread with little to no breaks through Sunday.

The weather service is advising commuters to be prepared for difficult driving conditions over Lookout, Lolo, and Marias passes.

“The higher terrain especially along the Montana/Idaho border and up into northwest Montana should anticipate feet of snow by Monday morning,” the weather service noted.

Another strong cold front will lower snow levels back to all valley floors by Monday afternoon.