MISSOULA — It might feel like Mother Nature has moved us straight from fall into winter today.
The low pressure system that we've been following all week has finally arrived and brought wet conditions, gusty winds, and cooler temperatures.
Mountain ranges and local areas above 6,500 feet are expected to receive snow between 1" and 2". Elevations above 7,500 feet could receive 2" and 5" by the end of this weather event.
A Winter Weather Advisory is still in place for the high elevations, including Glacier National Park, the Swan Range, the Whitefish Range, Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain ranges — basically, any mountain range will face wet, slushy snow and gusty winds.
Travelers or hunters in the backcountry must be prepared for difficult travel conditions and the potential for hypothermia.
Outside of the backcountry, most valleys will see off-and-on rain throughout today and tomorrow. Be prepared for wet roads and gusty winds when driving. The winds will impact everyone, ranging from 10 mph to 45 mph.
By tomorrow, the winds will die down but the rain will make a comeback.
Temperatures start to warm up after today — the 60s and 70s are expected for the weekend.