There will be one more beautiful day of warm temperatures and sunshine before a vigorous storm will bring rain, falling temperatures, falling snow levels, and an uncomfortable wind on Friday. This next storm system is sitting just off the coast of California but is already producing some heavy rain and severe thunderstorms down in Arizona. This storm has moisture, it has energy, and it will meet up with some colder air in Montana on Friday. So enjoy Thursday's sunshine and warmth, because it will be the last of its kind for a while. Friday will be chilly and wet, with many areas seeing steady rain develop through the morning. Highs will be in the 40s to around 50, but temperautres will fall into the afternoon. The snow level will fall as well, with rain mixing with and changing to snow through Friday afternoon and evening. The snow could be heavy at times on Friday afternoon, with a little accumulation possible in the lower elevations. The mountain passes could be slippery. The wet snow will taper off through the night, with a few inches likely in the mountains, and a coating up to a few inches in the lower elevations. General hunting season opens on Saturday, and there should be fresh snow in the mountains. It will be a little wet and sloppy as well, Saturday will be partly cloudy and blustery behind the storm. Highs will top out in the 40s and low 50s. Sunday a little light snow is likely across northern Montana. Snow will be very light, but much of the Hi-Line will get some flurries at least. Some light flurries are possible just north of Great Falls, but areas south of there like Helena should be mostly cloudy and mainly dry. Highs will be cold enough for the snow, as highs top out in the 30s to around 40. Sunday night will be pretty chilly with lows in the 10s and 20s. A few areas of light snow are possible into Monday, but there will be little to no accumulation.
Have a great day,
Curtis Grevenitz
Chief Meteorologist
