Winter Storm in West Glacier Region, Montana

A high-impact early-season snow and strong east wind event resulted in the closure of Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTTSR) at Logan Pass due to hazardous ice development beneath 6 to 8 inches of snow and was confirmed by plow operators. Mountain zones across the region (above 5,000 feet) received widespread snowfall ranging from 6 to 25 inches, with the highest accumulations, including 25 inches at Moss Peak, concentrated through the Swan and Mission Ranges. Several crashes and slide-offs were reported by Montana Highway Patrol. Additionally, the event was accompanied by strong winds with gusts to 50 mph along the foothills of the Swan Range, while gusts to 72 mph were recorded at Mount Aeneas.

A modified Arctic air mass moved into northwest Montana, producing a prolonged period of impactful weather. Periods of moderate to heavy snow showers combined with strong easterly winds created hazardous backcountry conditions, particularly above 3500 feet where snow accumulation and blowing snow reduced visibility. In the higher valleys, heavy snow initially resulted in slushy, difficult travel, but impacts increased significantly by nightfall as temperatures fell below freezing. The rapid freeze led to black ice and slick roadways, especially at bridges, contributing to multiple vehicle accidents. Following the storm, an impressive low stratus layer developed and lingered through October 16 across west-central Montana, which significantly restricted Visual Flight Rules (VFR) pilot access to the area for several days.