Area Forecast Discussion
Issued by NWS Missoula, MT

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FXUS65 KMSO 260658
AFDMSO

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Missoula MT
1258 AM MDT Tue Mar 26 2024

.DISCUSSION...Periodic showers will persist today in northwest flow.
Exercise caution if traveling over passes with intermittent slush
or snow cover on roadways, particularly along the ID/MT border, with
the potential for a few inches of snow. Minimal snow accumulation
is anticipated for valleys.

A weak ridge of high pressure will transit the area tonight through
Wednesday, fostering drier weather with temperatures typical for this
time of year.

On Wednesday evening, a new wave of precipitation will ensue as southwest
flow develops, followed by a modest cold front on Thursday. The
primary impact, albeit minor, will be felt at the passes, where a
60 to 80% likelihood of receiving at least 2 inches of snow by
Thursday afternoon exists for Lookout, Lolo, and Lost Trail
passes. Lost Trail Pass stands a 55% chance of accumulating at
least 4 inches of snow, whereas other passes have only a 10 to 20%
probability of this much. Once more, watch for slippery conditions
on passes Thursday morning, while valleys are expected to receive
an inch or less of snow on unpaved surfaces.

Ensemble clusters are in consensus regarding the formation of a deep trough
along the California coast over the upcoming weekend, leaving the Northern
Rockies in a broad trough. This pattern typically yields seasonable
temperatures alongside scattered light showers. There are hints of
a mid level low passing through the Yellowstone region late
weekend which could enhance snow chances for Southwest Montana and
Lemhi County.


&&

.AVIATION...Periodic showers will continue under northwest flow today.
Terminal sites may see brief low ceilings and visibility reductions in
showers with mountain obscurations also common. Winds will be light overall
with some afternoon gusts of 15 to 20 kts in the valleys. Brief high
pressure ridging sets up tonight into Wednesday.

&&

.MSO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MT...None.
ID...None.
&&

$$


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