Blizzard — Southern Big Horn, Montana

2022-04-23 · Southern Big Horn, Montana

Event narrative

Although only 3 to 4 inches of snow fell, very strong winds resulted in significant blowing and drifting of snow. This resulted in the closure of US 212.

Wider weather episode

A powerful upper and surface low moved across central Wyoming into the Dakotas. This resulted in heavy snow and very strong northerly winds. Most highways and roads were closed during the storm, and for a time after the storm.

According to Montana-Dakota Utilities, the strong winds and heavy, wet snow downed hundreds and possibly thousands of electrical poles, destruction that might be among the worst ever seen. Hundreds of cross arms were broken and miles of poles down with the damage being unprecedented. Snowfall amounts of 12 to 15 inches were common.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1017674. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.