Alert archive / Montana / Blizzard Warnings in 2019

Blizzard Warning 1, NWS Missoula, MT

February 3, 20195 counties in Montana

NWS Missoula, MT issued this blizzard warning at Feb 3, 2019, 2:00 PM MST for 5 counties in Montana. It was in force for 7 hr. 2 reports came from inside the area while it was in force.

The area

The counties it named, with what was reported inside it.

The facts

Issued
Feb 3, 2019, 2:00 PM MST (21:00 UTC)
Expired
Feb 3, 2019, 8:49 PM MST
In force
7 hr
Issued by
NWS Missoula, MT

Counties Granite County, MT, Lake County, MT, Missoula County, MT, Powell County, MT, Ravalli County, MT

The radar

The Missoula radar (KMSX), 34 km from the middle of the area, began a volume at 21:01 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.

What was reported inside it

TimeReportWhereRemark
Feb 3, 2:00 PM MSTHEAVY SNOW 02 S Pablo, MTHEAVY SNOW AND WINDS HAVE CREATED 6 FOOT SNOW DRIFTS IN THE AREA.
Feb 3, 4:31 PM MSTSNOW 2.71 Wnw Huson, MTFROM ABOUT 8AM TO 4:30PM.

Local storm reports filed while the alert was in force, from inside its polygon or its counties.

The nearest sounding before it

Spokane, WA (KOTX), launched 12:00Z, 9.0 hours before the alert went out and 227 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 12:00Z on 2019-02-03Temperature 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 12:00Z on 2019-02-03The wind through the lowest 10 kilometers. Zero to 1 km storm-relative helicity 77 square meters per square second.193958Sfc1 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
465 m above ground
0-6 km bulk shear
38 kt
0-1 km storm-relative helicity
77 m²/s²
0-3 km storm-relative helicity
110 m²/s²
Significant tornado parameter
0.0
Supercell composite
0.0

Open this sounding in Storm Lab

The text

As transmitted.

844 
WWUS45 KMSO 032100
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Missoula MT
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

MTZ043-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.BZ.W.0001.190203T2100Z-190204T0400Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Potomac/Seeley Lake Region-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MST THIS EVENING...
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blizzard conditions along Interstate 90
  and Highway 200. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. Additional
  snow accumulations of 4 to 6 inches. 

* WHERE...Highway 200 Bonner to Greenough, Highway 83 Seeley 
  Lake to Condon, and I-90 East Missoula to Bearmouth.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Blizzard Warning, until 9 PM MST this evening.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel will continue to be very difficult.
  Areas of blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility. The
  cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero could cause frostbite 
  on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are 
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds 
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout 
conditions, making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If 
you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get 
stranded, stay with your vehicle. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ005-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.BZ.W.0001.190203T2100Z-190204T0400Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM MST THIS EVENING...
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blizzard conditions in the Missoula
  Valley. Winds gusting as high as 60 mph in Missoula, especially
  near Hellgate Canyon, downtown Missoula, and the Rattlesnake
  Valley. Additional snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches in the
  Missoula and Bitteroot Valleys. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph
  in the Bitterroot Valley.

* WHERE...Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Blizzard Warning, until 9 PM MST this evening.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Difficult travel conditions will continue.
  Blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills as low as 15 below zero could result in hypothermia 
  if precautions are not taken.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are 
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds 
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout 
conditions, making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If 
you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get 
stranded, stay with your vehicle. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ002-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
West Glacier Region-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow. Additional snow 
  accumulations of 2 to 4 inches. Dangerous wind chills and winds 
  gusting as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Bad Rock Canyon, Essex, Highway 83 Bigfork to Swan 
  Lake, Marias Pass, and Polebridge.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas 
  of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills as low as 50 below zero could 
  cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ003-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Flathead/Mission Valleys-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow. Additional snow 
  accumulations of 2 to 5 inches. Dangerous wind chills and winds 
  gusting as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Flathead Lake, Flathead Valley, Mission Valley, and 
  Polson.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas 
  of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  cold wind chills as low as 30 below zero could cause frostbite 
  on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ007-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Butte/Blackfoot Region-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow. Additional snow
  accumulations of 4 to 6 inches. Dangerous will chills and winds
  gusting as high as 50 mph.

* WHERE...Butte, Georgetown Lake, Highway 12 Garrison to 
  Elliston, Homestake Pass, and MacDonald Pass.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills as low as 35 below zero could 
  cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ006-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow. Additional snow 
  accumulations of 5 to 8 inches.

* WHERE...Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills as low as 15 below zero could result in 
  hypothermia if precautions are not taken.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

IDZ005-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Northern Clearwater Mountains-
100 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 6 to 9 
  inches.

* WHERE...Elk River, Highway 11 Pierce to Headquarters, and 
  Pierce.

* WHEN...Until 1 PM PST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

IDZ006-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Southern Clearwater Mountains-
100 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Above 3000 feet total snow accumulations of 
  6 to 9 inches. Below 3000 feet 3 to 6 inches.


* WHERE...Dixie, Elk City, and Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass.

* WHEN...Until 1 PM PST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ004-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Lower Clark Fork Region-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow. Total snow accumulations
  below 4000 feet 4 to 6 inches, and 9 to 12 inches above 4000
  feet. 

* WHERE...Evaro Hill, Highway 200 Thompson Falls to Plains, 
  Highway 200 Trout Creek to Heron, and I-90 Lookout Pass to 
  Haugan.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills as low as 20 below zero could cause frostbite on 
  exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

MTZ001-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Kootenai/Cabinet Region-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow blowing snow. Additional snow accumulations of
  3 to 5 inches. Dangerous wind chills and winds gusting 30 to 40
  mph.

* WHERE...Highway 2 Kalispell to Libby, Highway 37 Eureka to 
  Libby, Highway 56 Bull Lake Road, and Highway 93 Eureka to 
  Whitefish.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult. Areas of 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills as low as 35 below zero could 
  cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

IDZ007-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.190204T0000Z-190205T0000Z/
Orofino/Grangeville Region-
100 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS
AFTERNOON TO 4 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 7 inches
  expected. 

* WHERE...Camas Prairie, Grangeville and vicinity, and Greer 
  Grade.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

IDZ008-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.190204T0000Z-190205T0000Z/
Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region-
100 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS
AFTERNOON TO 4 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches 
  below 3500 feet, 3 to 6 above 3500 feet and 6 to 10 inches for 
  Whitebird Hill expected.

* WHERE...Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$

IDZ009-010-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WW.Y.0014.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Western Lemhi County-Eastern Lemhi County-
200 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST
MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 3 inches in
  Salmon, otherwise 4 to 6 inches expected.


* WHERE...Shoup, Bannock Pass, Highway 28 Tendoy to Lone Pine, 
  Highway 93 Lost Trail Pass to Gibbonsville, Lemhi Pass, and 
  Salmon.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads
and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving. 

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

&&

$$
1 follow-up statement
014 
WWUS45 KMSO 040349
WSWMSO

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Missoula MT
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

MTZ043-042100-
/O.CAN.KMSO.BZ.W.0001.000000T0000Z-190204T0400Z/
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.W.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Potomac/Seeley Lake Region-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...
...BLIZZARD WARNING IS CANCELLED...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Dangerously 
  cold wind chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 2 to
  4 inches. Wind chills as low as 45 below zero expected.

* WHERE...Highway 200 Bonner to Greenough, Highway 83 Seeley 
  Lake to Condon, and I-90 East Missoula to Bearmouth.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Warning, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas 
  of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed 
  skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Warning means the combination of very cold air and
the wind will create dangerously low wind chill values. Frostbite
can occur quickly and even hypothermia or death if precautions
are not taken. 

&&

$$

MTZ005-042100-
/O.CAN.KMSO.BZ.W.0001.000000T0000Z-190204T0400Z/
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.Y.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...
...BLIZZARD WARNING IS CANCELLED...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Very cold wind
  chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 1 to 3 
  inches. Wind chills as low as 20 below zero expected.

* WHERE...Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Advisory, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little 
  as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Advisory means that cold air and the wind will 
combine to create low wind chills. Frostbite and hypothermia can 
occur if precautions are not taken. Make sure you wear a hat and 
gloves. 

&&

$$

MTZ002-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.W.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
West Glacier Region-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Dangerously 
  cold wind chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 1 to
  3 inches. Wind chills as low as 60 below zero expected.

* WHERE...Bad Rock Canyon, Essex, Highway 83 Bigfork to Swan 
  Lake, Marias Pass, and Polebridge.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Warning, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas 
  of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed 
  skin in as little as 5 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Warning means the combination of very cold air and
the wind will create dangerously low wind chill values. Frostbite
can occur quickly and even hypothermia or death if precautions
are not taken. 

&&

$$

MTZ003-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.W.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Flathead/Mission Valleys-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Dangerously 
  cold wind chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 1 to
  3 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. Wind chills as low 
  as 40 below zero expected.

* WHERE...Flathead Lake, Flathead Valley, Mission Valley, and 
  Polson.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Warning, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas 
  of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed 
  skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Warning means the combination of very cold air and
the wind will create dangerously low wind chill values. Frostbite
can occur quickly and even hypothermia or death if precautions
are not taken. 

&&

$$

MTZ007-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.W.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Butte/Blackfoot Region-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Dangerously 
  cold wind chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 1 to
  3 inches. Wind chills as low as 45 below zero expected.

* WHERE...Butte, Georgetown Lake, Highway 12 Garrison to 
  Elliston, Homestake Pass, and MacDonald Pass.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Warning, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed 
  skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Warning means the combination of very cold air and 
the wind will create dangerously low wind chill values. Frostbite 
can occur quickly and even hypothermia or death if precautions are
not taken. 

&&

$$

MTZ004-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.Y.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Lower Clark Fork Region-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Very cold wind
  chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 4 to 6 
  inches. Wind chills as low as 25 below zero expected.

* WHERE...Evaro Hill, Highway 200 Thompson Falls to Plains, 
  Highway 200 Trout Creek to Heron, and I-90 Lookout Pass to 
  Haugan.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Advisory, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little 
  as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Advisory means that cold air and the wind will 
combine to create low wind chills. Frostbite and hypothermia can 
occur if precautions are not taken. Make sure you wear a hat and 
gloves. 

&&

$$

MTZ001-042100-
/O.NEW.KMSO.WC.Y.0001.190204T0400Z-190204T1800Z/
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Kootenai/Cabinet Region-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...
...WIND CHILL ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Very cold wind
  chills expected. Additional snow accumulations of 2 to 4 
  inches. Wind chills as low as 30 below zero expected...locally 
  40 below zero closer to Kalispell.

* WHERE...Highway 2 Kalispell to Libby, Highway 37 Eureka to 
  Libby, Highway 56 Bull Lake Road, and Highway 93 Eureka to 
  Whitefish.

* WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, until 2 PM MST Monday. 
  For the Wind Chill Advisory, until 11 AM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The 
  dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed 
  skin in as little as 10 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Advisory means that cold air and the wind will
combine to create low wind chills. Frostbite and hypothermia can
occur if precautions are not taken. Make sure you wear a hat and
gloves. 

&&

$$

MTZ006-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow, blowing snow and treacherous roads. Additional 
  snow accumulations of 5 to 8 inches.

* WHERE...Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills as low as 30 below zero could cause frostbite on 
  exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

&&

$$

IDZ005-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Northern Clearwater Mountains-
749 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations of 6 to 9 
  inches.

* WHERE...Elk River, Highway 11 Pierce to Headquarters, and 
  Pierce.

* WHEN...Until 1 PM PST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The 
  cold wind chills as low as 15 below zero could result in 
  hypothermia if precautions are not taken.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

&&

$$

IDZ006-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Southern Clearwater Mountains-
749 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Above 3000 feet total snow accumulations of 
  6 to 9 inches. Below 3000 feet 3 to 6 inches.

* WHERE...Dixie, Elk City, and Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass.

* WHEN...Until 1 PM PST Monday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

&&

$$

IDZ007-050000-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190205T0000Z/
Orofino/Grangeville Region-
749 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 7 inches 
  expected.

* WHERE...Camas Prairie, Grangeville and vicinity, and Greer 
  Grade.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Monday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

&&

$$

IDZ008-050000-
/O.CON.KMSO.WS.W.0004.000000T0000Z-190205T0000Z/
Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region-
749 PM PST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM PST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches 
  below 3500 feet, 3 to 6 above 3500 feet and 6 to 10 inches for 
  Whitebird Hill expected.

* WHERE...Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Monday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

&&

$$

IDZ009-010-042100-
/O.CON.KMSO.WW.Y.0014.000000T0000Z-190204T2100Z/
Western Lemhi County-Eastern Lemhi County-
849 PM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM MST
MONDAY...

* WHAT...Snow. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 3 inches in 
  Salmon, otherwise 4 to 6 inches expected.

* WHERE...Shoup, Bannock Pass, Highway 28 Tendoy to Lone Pine, 
  Highway 93 Lost Trail Pass to Gibbonsville, Lemhi Pass, and 
  Salmon.

* WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Monday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

&&

$$

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before this blizzard 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 blizzard warning went out at Feb 3, 4:03 AM MST, 9 hours 57 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Feb 3, 4:03 AM MST, 9 hours 57 minutes before
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Missoula MT
403 AM MST Sun Feb 3 2019

...SIGNIFICANT WINTER STORM UNDERWAY...

.DISCUSSION...The arctic air has made it into the Flathead Valley
as of 3 am this morning with winds gusting to 50 mph combined with
snow and blowing snow. Last evening rain fell in many locations
and when combined with temperatures in the single digits and
teens, strong winds and falling snow makes for difficult travel
conditions. Be very careful if you have to drive as there could be
an ice layer under the snow causing it to be slicker than one
would think! As the arctic cold front continues to push west and
south, expect areas of freezing rain, especially along the Highway
200, I-90 and US-93 corridors. Eventually the arctic air will
become deep enough causing a switch-over to all snow.

The radar has filled in over the Mission and Flathead Valleys this
morning as expected as the colder air continues to shift
southward, undercutting the moist flow aloft.

The arctic boundary will eventually stall by this afternoon from
Clearwater County, Idaho east and south towards Hamilton/Darby and
east and south towards Divide which is south of Butte. Waves of
moisture moving over this feature will cause:

1) Periods of heavy snow along the I-90 corridor, central
Bitterroot Valley and portions of Highway 200 corridor especially
towards Helmville. Also near Headquarters and Pierce, Idaho.

2) Freezing rain near or south of Hamilton, MT towards Darby and
connecting valleys towards Painted Rocks. It is also possible over
portions of central or western Clearwater County.

The cold air will push south towards the Camas Prairie, ID and
Grangeville area tonight which will cause a changeover to snow.
Snow intensities could become quite heavy at times into Monday
morning. Confidence is low, but even the Riggins area could
changeover to a period of decent snow Monday morning.

On Monday, the arctic boundary will be draped over central Idaho
extending east into southwest Montana. Weak disturbances will
provide enough lift and moisture to keep snow going in many
locations. Other places like over Lincoln County could see decent
breaks in the snow. Some locations could continue to deal with
freezing rain near the stationary front..one area of concern is
the southern Bitteroot Valley where the arctic air will be
shallow enough to support that. There could be enough solar
penetration to allow for ground temperatures to warm above
freezing.

Areas of light snow will continue Tuesday and Wednesday as we
remain under an upper level trough with frigid arctic air in
place. One focused area of heavier snowfall and gusty winds is
expected across Lemhi County into southwest Montana Tuesday into
early Wednesday with travel impacts likely. Meanwhile, highs will
be in the teens and 20s, with overnight lows from below zero to
single digits in western Montana with teens and 20s in north-
central Idaho. Breezy easterly winds will continue to keep wind
chills at uncomfortable to dangerous levels.

General agreement continues that most of Thursday will be dry but
continued cold. Then a wintry period may once again become
established Friday into next weekend. Current forecast model
projections show several bouts of snowfall with a renewed push of
Arctic air.

&&

.AVIATION...A winter storm is underway across the Northern
Rockies. Expect strong north to east winds to 45 knots near
canyons and also on ridgetops. Periods of moderate to heavy
snow, blowing snow, and reduced visibility are expected
across west-central Montana including MSO and possibly BTM during
the day today. Freezing rain is anticipated over portions of
Clearwater County and southwest Montana as the arctic cold front
stalls in those areas by 03/2100Z. The Grangeville area in Idaho
will experience a cold front passage by 04/0300Z causing a
changeover to moderate to heavy snow that will last through
04/1600Z.

&&

.MSO WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MT...Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Butte/Blackfoot
     Region.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Bitterroot/Sapphire
     Mountains.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Missoula/Bitterroot
     Valleys.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Lower Clark Fork
     Region.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Flathead/Mission
     Valleys.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday West Glacier Region.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Kootenai/Cabinet
     Region.

     Winter Storm Warning until 2 PM MST Monday Potomac/Seeley Lake
     Region.

ID...Winter Weather Advisory from 8 AM this morning to 2 PM MST
     Monday Eastern Lemhi County...Western Lemhi County.

     Winter Storm Warning from 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Monday
     Lower Hells Canyon/Salmon River Region.

     Winter Storm Warning from 4 PM this afternoon to 4 PM PST Monday
     Orofino/Grangeville Region.

     Winter Storm Warning until 1 PM PST Monday Southern Clearwater
     Mountains.

     Winter Storm Warning until 1 PM PST Monday Northern Clearwater
     Mountains.

&&

In the hours before

Local storm report, Feb 3, 8:10 AM MST, 5 hours 50 minutes before
PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
810 AM MST SUN FEB 3 2019

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0623 AM     NON-TSTM WND GST HELMVILLE               46.87N 112.96W
02/03/2019  M63 MPH          POWELL             MT   MESONET

            63 MPH WIND GUST, WITH HEAVY SNOW. BLOWING
            AND DRIFTING SNOW OCCURRING.

&&
Local storm report, Feb 3, 12:08 PM MST, 1 hour 52 minutes before
PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MISSOULA MT
1208 PM MST SUN FEB 3 2019

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

1102 AM     NON-TSTM WND GST THOMPSON FALLS          47.60N 115.34W
02/03/2019  M50 MPH          SANDERS            MT   MESONET

&&

Nearby

Blizzard Warnings in Montana, 2019Every blizzard warning in 2019

Sources

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