Blizzard — Central and Southern Valley, Montana

2025-12-17 · Central and Southern Valley, Montana

Event narrative

The Glasgow airport ASOS site (KGGW) recorded visibility of 1/4 mile or worse in blowing snow for about 4.5 hours. Multiple other reports included stranded motorists unable to see beyond the hoods of their vehicles, severe driving conditions, long-term power outages and school cancelations. Widespread wind gust reports of 70 - 80 mph were common, with a peak wind gust of 78 mph recorded in Glasgow.

Wider weather episode

A very strong Alberta clipper winter storm system brought severe wind gusts and heavy snow to portions of northeast Montana. Blizzard conditions persisted for most of the evening, late night, and overnight hours.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1297764. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.