Alert archive / Montana / Winter Storm Warnings in 2009

Winter Storm Warning 19, NWS Missoula, MT

October 26, 20098 counties in Montana; Clearwater County, Idaho County, Idaho

NWS Missoula, MT issued this winter storm warning at Oct 26, 2009, 3:59 AM MDT for 8 counties in Montana; Clearwater County, Idaho County, Idaho. It took effect at Oct 26, 2009, 12:00 PM MDT. It was in force for 24 hr. No storm report in the archive falls inside the area while it was in force.

The area

The counties it named.

The facts

Issued
Oct 26, 2009, 3:59 AM MDT (09:59 UTC)
In effect from
Oct 26, 2009, 12:00 PM MDT
Expired
Oct 27, 2009, 11:40 AM MDT
In force
24 hr
Issued by
NWS Missoula, MT

Counties Clearwater County, ID, Idaho County, ID, Flathead County, MT, Granite County, MT, Lake County, MT, Mineral County, MT, Missoula County, MT, Powell County, MT, Ravalli County, MT, Sanders County, MT

The radar

The Missoula radar (KMSX), 31 km from the middle of the area, began a volume at 09:58 UTC, the scan nearest the moment this went out.

Open the radar archive at this moment

The archived warnings, watches and discussions in force at that minute are drawn over the scan, this one among them.

The nearest sounding before it

Spokane, WA (KOTX), launched 00:00Z, 10.0 hours before the alert went out and 173 km from the middle of its area. This is the routine balloon launch nearest before it, the air the forecaster had in hand, not a measurement taken for the alert.

Skew-T log-pSkew-T log-p diagram, Spokane, WA at 00:00Z on 2009-10-26Temperature and dew point through the depth of the atmosphere, with the mixed-layer parcel. CAPE 0 joules per kilogram.LCL10008507005003002001001 km2 km3 km6 km9 km12 km15 km-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Temperature in red, dew point in green, the mixed-layer parcel dashed.
HodographHodograph, Spokane, WA at 00:00Z on 2009-10-26The wind through the lowest 10 kilometers. Zero to 1 km storm-relative helicity 77 square meters per square second.1939587897117Sfc1 km3 km6 km9 kmRMLM
The wind turning with height, colored by layer: ground to 1 km, 1 to 3 km, 3 to 6 km, 6 to 10 km.
Mixed-layer CAPE
0 J/kg
Mixed-layer CIN
No buoyant parcel
Mixed-layer LCL
1268 m above ground
0-6 km bulk shear
58 kt
0-1 km storm-relative helicity
77 m²/s²
0-3 km storm-relative helicity
229 m²/s²
Significant tornado parameter
0.0
Supercell composite
0.0

Open this sounding in Storm Lab

The text

As transmitted, in the capitals the NWS used until 2016.

000 
WWUS45 KMSO 260959
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
359 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

...MOUNTAIN SNOW ALONG WITH INCREASED WINDS WILL IMPACT THE
NORTHERN ROCKIES STARTING TODAY AND CONTINUING THROUGH TUESDAY...

.A MOIST AND STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL MOVE INTO THE
NORTHERN ROCKIES THIS MORNING. AS THE SYSTEM PASSES ACCUMULATING
SNOW IS EXPECTED...MAINLY IN THE HIGHER TERRAIN OF WESTERN MONTANA
AND NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. IN ADDITION TO SNOW... WINDS WILL
INCREASE THROUGH MONDAY CREATING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
DUE TO SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW.

IN ADDITION...THE EVOLUTION OF THE WEATHER PATTERN FAVORS
ACCUMULATING SNOW IN THE CAMAS PRAIRIE AREA...INCLUDING
GRANGEVILLE AND WHITE BIRD SUMMIT TUESDAY. AFTER THE COLD FRONT
PASSES MONDAY NIGHT...COOLER MOIST AIR WILL BE USHERED IN BY A
NORTHERLY WIND FLOW ACROSS NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. THIS FLOW FAVORS
PRECIPITATION ENHANCEMENT AS IT IS LOCALLY FORCED UP THE TERRAIN.

IDZ007-008-261800-
/O.UPG.KMSO.WS.A.0012.091027T1200Z-091028T0300Z/
/O.NEW.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091027T1200Z-091028T0300Z/
OROFINO/GRANGEVILLE REGION-LOWER HELLS CANYON/SALMON RIVER REGION-
259 AM PDT MON OCT 26 2009

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM TO 8 PM PDT TUESDAY
ABOVE 3000 FEET...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS ISSUED A WINTER
STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW ABOVE 3000 FEET...WHICH IS IN EFFECT
FROM 5 AM TO 8 PM PDT TUESDAY. THE WINTER STORM WATCH IS NO LONGER
IN EFFECT.

RAIN WILL BE CHANGING OVER TO SNOW BY TUESDAY MORNING AS THE
MOIST ATMOSPHERE COOLS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A NORTHERLY FLOW.
THIS NORTHERLY FLOW FAVORS ENHANCEMENT OVER THE FOOTHILLS AND
PLATEAUS OF NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO...INCLUDING THE GRANGEVILLE AREA
AND WHITE BIRD SUMMIT. NEW SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 8 INCHES ARE
POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY EVENING.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ006-MTZ006-261800-
/O.UPG.KMSO.WS.A.0012.091026T1800Z-091028T0300Z/
/O.NEW.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091026T1800Z-091028T0300Z/
SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS-
359 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009 /259 AM PDT MON OCT 26 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TODAY
TO 9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/ TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS ISSUED A WINTER
STORM WARNING FOR SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW ABOVE 4500 FEET...WHICH IS IN
EFFECT FROM NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TODAY TO 9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/
TUESDAY. THE WINTER STORM WATCH IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.

SNOW WILL BEGIN TO FALL TODAY BUT THE MAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS WILL
BEGIN THIS EVENING. WIND WILL ACCOMPANY THE SNOW WITH SNOW AND
BLOWING SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN
SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 12 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY
EVENING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOLO AND LOST TRAIL WILL
EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND
TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS
ACCOMPANIED WITH GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ005-MTZ002-004-043-261800-
/O.UPG.KMSO.WS.A.0012.091026T1800Z-091027T1800Z/
/O.NEW.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091026T1800Z-091027T1800Z/
NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-WEST GLACIER REGION-
LOWER CLARK FORK REGION-POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE REGION-
359 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009 /259 AM PDT MON OCT 26 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TODAY
TO NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS ISSUED A WINTER
STORM WARNING FOR SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW ABOVE 4500 FEET...WHICH IS IN
EFFECT FROM NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TODAY TO NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/
TUESDAY. THE WINTER STORM WATCH IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.

SNOW WILL BEGIN TO FALL THIS MORNING BUT THE MAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS
WILL BEGIN AFTER NOON MDT. WIND WILL ACCOMPANY THE SNOW WITH SNOW
AND BLOWING SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN
SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 10 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY
MORNING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING MARIAS AND LOOKOUT WILL
EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND
TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS
ACCOMPANIED WITH GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ010-261800-
/O.UPG.KMSO.WS.A.0012.091027T0000Z-091028T0300Z/
/O.NEW.KMSO.WW.Y.0061.091027T0000Z-091028T0000Z/
EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY-
359 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM MDT TUESDAY ABOVE 5000 FEET...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS ISSUED A WINTER
WEATHER ADVISORY FOR SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW ABOVE 5000 FEET... WHICH
IS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 PM MDT TUESDAY. THE
WINTER STORM WATCH IS NO LONGER IN EFFECT.

SNOW WILL BEGIN TO FALL LATE THIS AFTERNOON BUT THE MAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS WILL BEGIN IN THE EVENING. WIND WILL ACCOMPANY THE
SNOW WITH SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS
SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 7 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE
BY TUESDAY EVENING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOST TRAIL AND
BANNOCK WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL.
HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED WITH GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW...BLOWING
SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE
PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE
CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

&&

$$
5 follow-up statements
000 
WWUS45 KMSO 261749
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
1149 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

...MOUNTAIN SNOW ALONG WITH INCREASED WINDS WILL IMPACT THE NORTHERN
ROCKIES STARTING THIS AFTERNOON AND CONTINUING THROUGH TUESDAY...

.A MOIST AND STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL MOVE INTO THE
NORTHERN ROCKIES. AS THE SYSTEM PASSES ACCUMULATING SNOW IS
EXPECTED...MAINLY IN THE HIGHER TERRAIN OF WESTERN MONTANA AND
NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. WINDS WILL INCREASE AND CREATE POTENTIALLY
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS DUE TO SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW.

IN ADDITION...THE EVOLUTION OF THE WEATHER PATTERN FAVORS
ACCUMULATING SNOW IN THE CAMAS PRAIRIE AREA...INCLUDING
WHITE BIRD SUMMIT TUESDAY. AFTER THE COLD FRONT PASSES
TONIGHT...COOLER MOIST AIR WILL BE USHERED IN BY A NORTHERLY WIND
FLOW ACROSS NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. THIS FLOW FAVORS PRECIPITATION
ENHANCEMENT AS IT IS LOCALLY FORCED UP THE TERRAIN.

IDZ007-008-270300-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091027T1200Z-091028T0300Z/
OROFINO/GRANGEVILLE REGION-LOWER HELLS CANYON/SALMON RIVER REGION-
1049 AM PDT MON OCT 26 2009

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM TO 8 PM PDT
TUESDAY ABOVE 4000 FEET INCLUDING THE WHITE BIRD GRADE...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM
5 AM TO 8 PM PDT TUESDAY. 

SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW WILL CREATE HAZARDOUS TRAVEL OVER WHITEBIRD
GRADE TUESDAY. 

RAIN WILL BE CHANGING OVER TO SNOW BY TUESDAY MORNING AS THE
MOIST ATMOSPHERE COOLS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A NORTHERLY FLOW.
THIS NORTHERLY FLOW FAVORS ENHANCEMENT OVER THE FOOTHILLS AND
PLATEAUS OF NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. NEW SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 5 TO 8
INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY EVENING OVER WHITEBIRD GRADE AND 3
TO 5 INCHES IN THE GRANGEVILLE AREA.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ006-MTZ006-270300-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091026T1800Z-091028T0300Z/
SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS-
1149 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009 /1049 AM PDT MON OCT 26 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MDT /8 PM
PDT/ TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/ TUESDAY. 

SNOW WILL BEGIN TO FALL THIS AFTERNOON BUT THE MAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS WILL BEGIN THIS EVENING. WIND WILL ACCOMPANY THE
SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS
SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 12 INCHES ARE
POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY EVENING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOLO AND
LOST TRAIL WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL.
HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ005-MTZ002-004-043-270300-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091026T1800Z-091027T1800Z/
NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-WEST GLACIER REGION-
LOWER CLARK FORK REGION-POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE REGION-
1149 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009 /1049 AM PDT MON OCT 26 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON MDT /11 AM
PDT/ TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TUESDAY. 

SNOW WILL BEGIN TO FALL THIS AFTERNOON. WIND WILL ACCOMPANY THE
SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS
SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 10 INCHES ARE
POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY MORNING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING MARIAS AND
LOOKOUT WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL.
HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ010-270300-
/O.CON.KMSO.WW.Y.0061.091027T0000Z-091028T0000Z/
EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY-
1149 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS
EVENING TO 6 PM MDT TUESDAY ABOVE 5000 FEET...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY ABOVE 5000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM
6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 PM MDT TUESDAY. 

SNOW WILL BEGIN TO FALL LATE THIS AFTERNOON BUT THE MAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS WILL BEGIN IN THE EVENING. WIND WILL ACCOMPANY THE
SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS
SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 7 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE
BY TUESDAY EVENING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOST TRAIL AND
BANNOCK WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL.
HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED WITH GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW...BLOWING
SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE
PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE
CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

&&

$$
000 
WWUS45 KMSO 270250
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
850 PM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

...MOUNTAIN SNOW ALONG WITH INCREASED WINDS WILL IMPACT THE
NORTHERN ROCKIES THROUGH TUESDAY...

.A MOIST AND STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE
THROUGH THE NORTHERN ROCKIES. ACCUMULATING SNOW IS EXPECTED...MAINLY
IN THE HIGHER TERRAIN OF WESTERN MONTANA AND NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO.
WINDS WILL INCREASE AND CREATE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
DUE TO SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW.

IN ADDITION...THE EVOLUTION OF THE WEATHER PATTERN FAVORS
ACCUMULATING SNOW IN THE CAMAS PRAIRIE AREA...INCLUDING WHITE
BIRD SUMMIT TUESDAY. AFTER THE COLD FRONT PASSES TONIGHT...COOLER
MOIST AIR WILL BE USHERED IN BY A NORTHERLY WIND FLOW ACROSS
NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. THIS FLOW FAVORS PRECIPITATION ENHANCEMENT
AS IT IS LOCALLY FORCED UP THE TERRAIN.

IDZ007-008-271100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091027T1200Z-091028T0300Z/
OROFINO/GRANGEVILLE REGION-LOWER HELLS CANYON/SALMON RIVER REGION-
750 PM PDT MON OCT 26 2009

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM TO 8 PM PDT
TUESDAY ABOVE 4000 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM
5 AM TO 8 PM PDT TUESDAY. 

SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW WILL CREATE HAZARDOUS TRAVEL OVER WHITEBIRD
GRADE TUESDAY.

RAIN WILL CHANGE OVER TO SNOW BY TUESDAY MORNING AS THE MOIST
ATMOSPHERE COOLS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A NORTHERLY FLOW. THIS
NORTHERLY FLOW FAVORS ENHANCEMENT OVER THE FOOTHILLS AND PLATEAUS
OF NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. NEW SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 5 TO 8 INCHES
ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY EVENING OVER WHITEBIRD GRADE AND 3 TO 5
INCHES IN THE GRANGEVILLE AREA. LOCALIZED BLOWING SNOW OVER THE
CAMAS PRAIRIE WILL CAUSE VISIBILITY REDUCTIONS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ006-MTZ006-271100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091028T0300Z/
SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS-
850 PM MDT MON OCT 26 2009 /750 PM PDT MON OCT 26 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MDT /8 PM
PDT/ TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/ TUESDAY. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 12 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY EVENING.
MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOLO AND LOST TRAIL WILL EXPERIENCE WIND
AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE
PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY
WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ005-MTZ002-004-043-271100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091027T1800Z/
NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-WEST GLACIER REGION-
LOWER CLARK FORK REGION-POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE REGION-
850 PM MDT MON OCT 26 2009 /750 PM PDT MON OCT 26 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON MDT /11 AM
PDT/ TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TUESDAY. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW BECOMING
THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF UP
TO 10 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY MORNING. MOUNTAIN PASSES
INCLUDING MARIAS AND LOOKOUT WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED
FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW...
BLOWING SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG
WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE.  THIS WILL
MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ010-271100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WW.Y.0061.000000T0000Z-091028T0000Z/
EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY-
850 PM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM MDT
TUESDAY ABOVE 5000 FEET...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY ABOVE 5000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
6 PM MDT TUESDAY. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW
BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS
OF 4 TO 7 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY TUESDAY EVENING. MOUNTAIN PASSES
INCLUDING LOST TRAIL AND BANNOCK WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED
FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED WITH GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW...BLOWING
SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE
PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE
CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

&&

$$
000 
WWUS45 KMSO 270938
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
338 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...MOUNTAIN SNOW ALONG WITH INCREASED WINDS WILL CONTINUE IMPACT THE
NORTHERN ROCKIES TODAY...

.A MOIST AND STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE
THROUGH THE NORTHERN ROCKIES. ACCUMULATING SNOW IS EXPECTED...
MAINLY IN THE HIGHER TERRAIN OF WESTERN MONTANA AND NORTH CENTRAL
IDAHO. WINDS CREATE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS DUE TO SNOW
AND BLOWING SNOW.

IN ADDITION...THE EVOLUTION OF THE WEATHER PATTERN FAVORS
ACCUMULATING SNOW IN THE CAMAS PRAIRIE AREA...INCLUDING WHITE
BIRD SUMMIT TODAY. MOIST AND COOL AIR IS BEING USHERED IN BY A
NORTHWESTERLY WIND FLOW ACROSS NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. THIS FLOW
FAVORS PRECIPITATION ENHANCEMENT AS IT IS LOCALLY FORCED UP THE
TERRAIN.

MTZ004-271045-
/O.CAN.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091027T1800Z/
LOWER CLARK FORK REGION-
338 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...WINTER STORM WARNING IS CANCELLED...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS CANCELLED THE WINTER
STORM WARNING. 

SNOW SHOWERS WILL CONTINUE TODAY...BUT SIGNIFICANT SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS ARE NO LONGER EXPECTED.

$$

IDZ007-008-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.091027T1200Z-091028T0300Z/
OROFINO/GRANGEVILLE REGION-LOWER HELLS CANYON/SALMON RIVER REGION-
238 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM PDT THIS
EVENING ABOVE 4000 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
8 PM PDT THIS EVENING. 

SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW WILL CREATE HAZARDOUS TRAVEL OVER WHITEBIRD
GRADE TODAY.

A COOL AND MOIST NORTHWESTERLY FLOW TODAY FAVORS SNOW ENHANCEMENT
OVER THE FOOTHILLS AND PLATEAUS OF NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO. NEW SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF 5 TO 8 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY THIS EVENING
OVER WHITEBIRD GRADE AND 3 TO 5 INCHES IN THE GRANGEVILLE AREA.
LOCALIZED BLOWING SNOW OVER THE CAMAS PRAIRIE WILL CAUSE
VISIBILITY REDUCTIONS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND
BLOWING SNOW...ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS AND
DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL
VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ006-MTZ006-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091028T0300Z/
SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS-
338 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009 /238 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MDT /8 PM
PDT/ THIS EVENING ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/ THIS EVENING. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 12 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY THIS EVENING.
MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOLO AND LOST TRAIL WILL EXPERIENCE
WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD
BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY
GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW...ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND
CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR
IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ005-MTZ002-043-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091027T1800Z/
NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-WEST GLACIER REGION-
POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE REGION-
338 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009 /238 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON MDT /11 AM
PDT/ TODAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TODAY. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF UP TO 12 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY LATE THIS MORNING.
MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING MARIAS WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED
FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW...ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS AND DANGEROUS WIND
CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR
IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ010-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WW.Y.0061.000000T0000Z-091028T0000Z/
EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY-
338 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM MDT THIS
EVENING ABOVE 5000 FEET...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY ABOVE 5000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
6 PM MDT THIS EVENING. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. TOTAL MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 7 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY THIS EVENING.
MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOST TRAIL AND BANNOCK WILL EXPERIENCE
WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD
BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED WITH
GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW...BLOWING
SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE
PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE
CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

&&

$$
000 
WWUS45 KMSO 271521 AAA
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE...UPDATED
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
921 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...MOUNTAIN SNOW SHOWERS WILL CONTINUE IMPACT THE NORTHERN ROCKIES TODAY...

.A MOIST AND STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE
THROUGH THE NORTHERN ROCKIES. ACCUMULATING SNOW IS EXPECTED...
MAINLY IN THE HIGHER TERRAIN OF WESTERN MONTANA AND NORTH CENTRAL
IDAHO. INCREASED WINDS WILL CREATE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS
CONDITIONS DUE TO SNOW AND BLOWING SNOW.


IDZ007-008-271630-
/O.CAN.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091028T0300Z/
OROFINO/GRANGEVILLE REGION-LOWER HELLS CANYON/SALMON RIVER REGION-
821 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...WINTER STORM WARNING IS CANCELLED...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS CANCELED THE WINTER
STORM WARNING. 

SNOW HAS DECREASED IN WEST CENTRAL IDAHO. SCATTERED SNOW SHOWERS
ARE EXPECTED TO CONTINUE THROUGH THE AFTERNOON HOURS WITH ONLY
LIGHT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS EXPECTED. 

$$

IDZ006-MTZ006-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091028T0300Z/
SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS-
921 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009 /821 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MDT /8 PM
PDT/ THIS EVENING ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
9 PM MDT /8 PM PDT/ THIS EVENING. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. TOTAL MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF 6 TO 10 INCHES WITH LOCALLY UP TO 12 INCHES ARE
POSSIBLE BY THIS EVENING. MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOLO AND LOST
TRAIL WILL EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS
AND TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND
BLOWING SNOW...ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS AND
DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL
VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ005-MTZ002-043-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091027T1800Z/
NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-WEST GLACIER REGION-
POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE REGION-
921 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009 /821 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON MDT /11 AM
PDT/ TODAY ABOVE 4500 FEET...

A WINTER STORM WARNING ABOVE 4500 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
NOON MDT /11 AM PDT/ TODAY. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. TOTAL MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF 6 TO 10 INCHES LOCALLY UP TO 12 INCHES ARE
POSSIBLE BY NOON.  MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING MARIAS WILL
EXPERIENCE WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND
TRAVELERS SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS
ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND
BLOWING SNOW...ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS AND
DANGEROUS WIND CHILLS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL
VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.

&&

$$

IDZ010-271800-
/O.CON.KMSO.WW.Y.0061.000000T0000Z-091028T0000Z/
EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY-
921 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM MDT THIS
EVENING ABOVE 5000 FEET...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY ABOVE 5000 FEET REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
6 PM MDT THIS EVENING. 

WIND WILL ACCOMPANY ACCUMULATING SNOW...WITH SNOW AND BLOWING
SNOW BECOMING THE MAIN IMPACT OF THIS SYSTEM. TOTAL MOUNTAIN SNOW
ACCUMULATIONS OF 4 TO 7 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE BY THIS EVENING.
MOUNTAIN PASSES INCLUDING LOST TRAIL AND BANNOCK WILL EXPERIENCE
WIND AND SNOW ACCUMULATIONS AS WELL. HUNTERS AND TRAVELERS SHOULD
BE PREPARED FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ACCOMPANIED WITH
GUSTY WINDS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW...BLOWING
SNOW...OR FREEZING RAIN WILL CAUSE TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE
PREPARED FOR SLIPPERY ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE
CAUTION WHILE DRIVING.

&&

$$
000 
WWUS45 KMSO 271740
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
1140 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

.AN UPPER LEVEL LOW WILL MOVE THROUGH WESTERN MONTANA THE
REMAINDER OF THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING AND PRODUCE SCATTERED
MOUNTAIN SNOW SHOWERS WITH LIGHT ACCUMULATIONS POSSIBLE.

IDZ006-MTZ006-271845-
/O.CAN.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091028T0300Z/
SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS-
1140 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009 /1040 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING IS CANCELLED...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS CANCELED THE WINTER
STORM WARNING. 

WIDESPREAD SNOW HAS TAPERED OFF TO SCATTERED SNOW SHOWER. ONLY
LIGHT MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE ANTICIPATED THE REMAINDER
THIS AFTERNOON. 

$$

IDZ005-MTZ002-043-271845-
/O.CAN.KMSO.WS.W.0019.000000T0000Z-091027T1800Z/
NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS-WEST GLACIER REGION-
POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE REGION-
1140 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009 /1040 AM PDT TUE OCT 27 2009/

...WINTER STORM WARNING IS CANCELLED...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS CANCELED THE WINTER
STORM WARNING. 

WIDESPREAD SNOW HAS TAPERED OFF TO SCATTERED SNOW SHOWER. ONLY
LIGHT MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE ANTICIPATED THE REMAINDER
THIS AFTERNOON. 

$$

IDZ010-271845-
/O.CAN.KMSO.WW.Y.0061.000000T0000Z-091028T0000Z/
EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY-
1140 AM MDT TUE OCT 27 2009

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS CANCELLED...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN MISSOULA HAS CANCELED THE WINTER
WEATHER ADVISORY. 

WIDESPREAD SNOW HAS TAPERED OFF TO SCATTERED SNOW SHOWER. ONLY
LIGHT MOUNTAIN SNOW ACCUMULATIONS ARE ANTICIPATED THE REMAINDER
THIS AFTERNOON. 

$$

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before this winter storm warning went out, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Missoula, MT wrote its last area forecast discussion before this winter storm warning went out at Oct 26, 3:42 AM MDT, 17 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Oct 26, 3:42 AM MDT, 17 minutes before
AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
342 AM MDT MON OCT 26 2009

.DISCUSSION...

TODAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY...A STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM HAS BEGUN
ITS PROGRESSION INLAND AND INTO THE NORTHERN ROCKIES THIS MORNING.
LIGHT PRECIPITATION HAS ALREADY BEGUN IN THE NORTHERN PANHANDLE OF
IDAHO...NORTHWEST AND FAR WESTERN PORTION OF WESTERN MONTANA.
SOUTHWESTERLY FLOW AHEAD OF A VIGOROUS COLD FRONT...LOCATED JUST
OFF FROM THE WEST COAST...WILL CONTINUE TO SPREAD MOISTURE AND
PRECIPITATION THROUGHOUT THE REGION TODAY. THE FORECAST REMAINS ON
TRACK FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOWFALL AND GUSTY WINDS IN THE HIGHER
TERRAIN INCLUDING MOUNTAIN PASSES OF NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO AND
WESTERN MONTANA BEGINNING TODAY. WINTER WEATHER WARNINGS HAVE BEEN
ISSUED ABOVE 4500 FEET TO ACCOUNT FOR THE SNOW AND WIND ASSOCIATED
WITH THIS SYSTEM. THE MAJORITY OF THE SNOW WILL OCCUR AS THE COLD
FRONT PASSES AND SNOW LEVELS LOWER. AFTER THE COLD FRONT PASSES
PRECIPITATION WILL BECOME SHOWERY UNDER AN UNSTABLE AIRMASS. A
NORTHWESTERLY FLOW WILL ALSO FOLLOW BEHIND THE COLD FRONT AS THE
ASSOCIATED UPPER LEVEL TROUGH TAKES HOLD OF THE NORTHERN ROCKIES.
THIS FLOW WILL CREATE UPSLOPE SNOW ENHANCEMENT OVER GRANGEVILLE
AND THE WHITEBIRD GRADE ON TUESDAY. SNOW WILL LINGER THROUGH THE
CLEARWATERS...BITTERROOTS AND WEST CENTRAL MONTANA INTO
WEDNESDAY.

A PROGRESSIVE NORTHWESTERLY FLOW WILL SET UP ALOFT OVER THE REGION
THROUGH THE END OF THE WEEK AND INTO THE WEEKEND. THIS WILL KEEP
CLOUDS AND THE POTENTIAL FOR PRECIPITATION IN THE FORECAST THROUGH
THE PERIOD. IT WILL ALSO CONTINUE TO BRING PACIFIC AIR INTO THE
AREA WHICH WILL KEEP TEMPERATURES JUST BELOW AVERAGE FOR THIS TIME OF
YEAR. CURRENTLY IT APPEARS THE BEST CHANCE OF MORE VALLEY RAIN AND
HIGHER ELEVATION SNOW WILL BE FRIDAY. HALLOWEEN IS STILL A
QUESTION AS THERE HAS BEEN A GREAT DEAL OF INCONSISTENCY WITH
DIFFERENT MODELS AND RUN TO RUN CONTINUITY.

&&

.AVIATION...A STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE
INTO THE NORTHERN ROCKIES TODAY BRINGING RAIN AND MOUNTAIN SNOW.
CLOUD DECKS AT ALL AIRFIELD WILL LOWER TODAY AS A STRONG COLD
FRONT APPROACHES AND PASSES THROUGH THIS EVENING. RAIN AT AREA
AIRFIELDS WILL BECOME SNOW AFTER THE FRONT PASSES GENERALLY AROUND
03Z TUESDAY NORTH AND 06Z TUESDAY SOUTH. WINDS WILL ALSO INCREASE
THROUGH THE DAY WITH VISIBILITY REDUCTIONS FROM PRECIPITATION AND
WIND POSSIBLE LATE THIS EVENING.

&&

.MSO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MT...WINTER STORM WARNING FROM NOON TODAY TO NOON MDT TUESDAY ABOVE
     4500 FEET FOR LOWER CLARK FORK REGION-POTOMAC/SEELEY LAKE
     REGION-WEST GLACIER REGION.

     WINTER STORM WARNING FROM NOON TODAY TO 9 PM MDT TUESDAY ABOVE
     4500 FEET FOR BITTERROOT/SAPPHIRE MOUNTAINS.

ID...WINTER STORM WARNING FROM 5 AM TO 8 PM PDT TUESDAY ABOVE 3000
     FEET FOR LOWER HELLS CANYON/SALMON RIVER REGION-
     OROFINO/GRANGEVILLE REGION.

     WINTER STORM WARNING FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 11 AM PDT
     TUESDAY ABOVE 4500 FEET FOR NORTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS.

     WINTER STORM WARNING FROM 11 AM THIS MORNING TO 8 PM PDT TUESDAY
     ABOVE 4500 FEET FOR SOUTHERN CLEARWATER MOUNTAINS.

     WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 PM MDT
     TUESDAY FOR EASTERN LEMHI COUNTY.

&&

SHORT TERM...KITSMILLER
LONG TERM....LOEFFELBEIN
AVIATION...KITSMILLER

The office that day

Everything else NWS Missoula, MT issued on the same UTC day.

IssuedProductOfficeCountiesLasted
Oct 26, 3:59 AM MDTWinter Weather AdvisoryMSOLemhi32 hr

Nearby

Winter Storm Warnings in Montana, 2009Winter Storm Warnings in Idaho, 2009Every winter storm warning in 2009

Sources

The product and its follow-ups from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center text; the sounding from the Mesonet's radiosonde archive; radar from the NEXRAD Level II archive.