MISSOULA – A big winter weather system across the state over the weekend.
The wind, snow and arctic cold caused issues on the roads and knocked out power in parts of western Montana and prompted many schools to delay the start of class on Monday.
- Winter weather bears down, blzzard warning, power outage
- Overdue snowmobilers found safe near Lolo Pass
The Montana Department of Transportation reported reduced visibility, blowing and drifting snow, and icy roads across the state and several travel alerts were issued in the Missoula area.
NorthWestern Energy reported on Sunday that nearly 2,000 people were without power in downtown Missoula while the snowy conditions and high winds also caused power outages in Plains and Thompson Falls.
Missoula County Search and Rescue members and multiple area agencies also responded to the Lolo Hot springs area on Sunday for reports of two missing snowmobilers. They were later found okay.
The severe weather is expected to continue into the start of our work week.
The National Weather Service issued a Wind Chill Warning and Wind Chill Advisory for areas across western Montana through 11 a.m. on Monday.
Snow will remain in the forecast Monday, especially for west-central and southwest Montana. Gusty winds will also continue, keeping blowing snow and drifting snow as a hazard to those traveling.
