This morning’s temperatures are some of the coldest we’ve seen all month. Many locations were in the 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s below zero. (For context, 80-proof liquor freezes at a mere 17 degrees below zero.) Wind chill values were even worse, with Havre coming in at 52 degrees below zero, and other locations in the 30s and 40s below.
Due to the extreme chill, the WIND CHILL ADVISORY for most of the state has been extended through Friday afternoon, and a WIND CHILL WARNING has been issued for northeast Montana. Even though temperatures are starting off extremely cold, this afternoon may provide brief relief. Highs will reach into double-digit territory by the afternoon, and Friday will bring a similar warm-up. However, the warmth will be fleeting- a cold front will push through Friday evening, bringing snow and a dramatic cool-down for the weekend. Because of the encroaching snowfall (along with cold wind chills), there is a WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY which will go into effect Friday afternoon. It’ll be a snowy start to a wintry weekend.
Saturday and Sunday will be the beginning of an on-and-off snowy pattern as multiple disturbances move through. Snowfall will continue through next week.
Temperatures are not expected to get above freezing any time soon.
Meteorologist Katie Alexander
