A new winter storm watch from the National Weather Service warns of heavy snow and strong winds across parts of the Northern Rockies this weekend.
Key points
- The NWS has issued a winter storm watch for specific mountain areas in Montana and Wyoming through Monday.
- Up to eight inches of snow and wind gusts of 40‑50 mph are possible, with visibility dropping below ¼ mile.
- A watch signals a 50 %+ chance of hazardous conditions; it may be upgraded to a warning if the storm becomes imminent.
- Outdoor enthusiasts should monitor updates and consider postponing activities due to the expected low visibility and strong winds.
The National Weather Service office in Billings, Montana, has posted a winter storm watch covering Sunday evening through Monday evening for mountainous terrain in both Montana and Wyoming, according to a Yahoo.com report.
Forecasters say the system could dump as much as eight inches of snow in the Pryor and northern Bighorn Mountains of Montana and the northeast Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, with wind gusts ranging from 40 to 50 mph and visibility dropping below a quarter‑mile as blowing snow takes hold.
What the watch entails
A winter storm watch is issued at least 24 hours before a potential event and signals a 50 % or greater chance of hazardous winter weather, though the exact timing and location remain uncertain. If conditions become more certain, the watch can be upgraded to a warning, which indicates an 80 % or higher probability of occurrence and imminent danger to life or property.
The advisory suggests that hikers planning routes in the Pryor Mountains or skiers heading to the Bighorn Range should reconsider their plans, as reduced visibility and high winds could make travel difficult or unsafe.
Expected snowfall and wind speeds
Meteorologists note that winter weather is beginning to affect a broader swath of the United States this November, following recent storms that have already impacted the western states over the past weekend.
Reader questions
What distinguishes a winter storm watch from a warning?
A watch is issued at least a day ahead and indicates a 50 % or greater chance of a winter storm, while a warning means an 80 % or higher probability and that dangerous conditions are imminent.
Which specific regions are covered by the current watch?
The watch applies to the Pryor and northern Bighorn Mountains in Montana and the northeast Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming.
What precautions should hikers and skiers take?
They should stay informed of any updates, consider delaying trips, and be prepared for reduced visibility and strong winds that could make travel hazardous.
Source: yahoo.com
