Rare June winter storm to hit with 12 inches of snow
A rare June winter storm is forecast to hit parts of northern Montana this weekend, with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning of up to a foot of heavy, wet snow in higher elevations of Glacier National Park.
The storm could bring hazardous travel, power outages, and treacherous trail conditions during a time of year typically dominated by warmer weather and early summer tourism.
The storm, which is set to begin Saturday afternoon and last through Sunday morning, is expected to produce significant snowfall above 6,000 feet and as much as 4 inches in valley areas.
Areas set to be affected include Logan Pass, Marias Pass and the backcountry of the Flathead National Forest, according to the NWS Great Falls and Missoula offices.
Winds gusting up to 40 mph are expected to accompany the snow, raising the risk of downed trees and power lines.
Why It Matters
Snowstorms in June are highly unusual for most of the continental United States, but not unprecedented in Glacier National Park, where higher elevations can experience snowfall year-round. Still, the predicted intensity of this weekend’s storm—up to 12 inches in some locations—poses serious challenges forpark operations and outdoor safety.
The abrupt contrast between extreme heat elsewhere in the country and an unseasonable snow event in the northern Rockies highlights the growing unpredictability of seasonal weather patterns in the U.S.
What To Know
According to a winter weather alert issued Wednesday by the National Weather Service, snow will primarily impact elevations above 6,000 feet, but some accumulation may occur as low as 4,000 feet, with up to 4 inches of accumulation even at lower elevations.
The advisory warns of “hazardous travel conditions, especially on Going-to-the-Sun and Looking Glass Roads and over the Hudson Bay Divide on US Hwy 89 as slush and snow accumulate on roadways.”
Dangerous trail conditions are also expected. The storm’s combination of wet snow and gusty winds could make hiking in the backcountry dangerous.
“Those looking to recreate in the backcountry of the Glacier National Park should be prepared for adverse trail conditions and consider altering their plans,” the NWS warned.
Tree falls caused by snow loading and power outages are also likely, especially in wooded, high-elevation areas, according to the NWS.
Impacts could range from moderate disruptions—hazardous driving conditions and altered recreation plans—to major ones, including widespread closures and dangerous or impossible travel.
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