Soggy weekend precedes return to winter

Will Northwest Montana have a white Christmas? The extended forecast is pointing toward yes, but not before a spell of warm and soggy conditions impacts the region.

Repeating waves of sloppy weather is expected to move across Northwest Montana beginning today. According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, high temperatures in the 40s today will be about 8 to 10 degrees above normal for this time of year.

However, a quick shot of winter weather returns by tonight. Mountain locations like Marias Pass could get up to 4 inches of new snow, while the valley will see a mix of rain and snow.

Another warm river of moisture will arrive Saturday night into Sunday, with rising snow levels.

“Expect moderate snowfall at Lookout Pass, Elk River, Pierce Idaho, Marias Pass before changing to mixed precipitation and eventually plain rain,” the Weather Service noted in its forecast discussion Thursday. “Other areas including Happy`s Inn to Mcgregor Lake, Yaak, Olney, West Glacier to Essex and Seeley Lake could pick up a few inches [of snow] before changing over Sunday morning.”

Highs in the 40s are likely Sunday, and some ponding is possible.

Yet another weather-maker is on tap to impact the region Monday and Tuesday. This time, valley snow accumulations are possible. Highs will be more seasonable in the low 30s, with lows in the 20s.

“This could keep the ground white for the remainder of the holiday week,” the Weather Service added.