Yesterday some snow fell in most areas with the mountains near Big Sky and Bozeman getting 2-4 inches. Further south a trace to 2 inches fell. More importantly, the strongest winds blew yesterday morning to midday from the NW at 15 mph gusting to 40 mph.
This morning temperatures are hovering near 10 degrees F. Winds are blowing 8-18 mph from the W and NW gusting in the low 20s. Skies are mostly clear.
Today clouds will increase as moisture moves over the area. Temperatures should warm into the low 20s F. Winds will slowly shift direction and blow from the SW but not increase in speed. Tonight a few more inches of snow should fall.
WIND is really driving the avalanche danger now (especially with so much powder available to drift) and it looks like we’ll have a few days without much wind. Strong winds will blow in northern and central Montana tomorrow and Friday which could affect the Bridger Range. Otherwise, the next significant wind may not arrive until Sunday.
Storm totals since Valentine’s day are impressive (weather log):
Bridger Range - 37” of snow (3.2” SWE)
Big Sky - 46” of snow (2.3” SWE)
Gallatin Range, S. Madison Range, Cooke City, Island Park and West Yellowstone - 17-27” (1.6-2.2” SWE)