Colder Mid-Week System Headed to Montana

Widespread precipitation, colder temps, and gusty winds expected as a cold front moves through the region.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 8:05pm

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A sweeping, majestic landscape painting depicting a snow-covered mountain range shrouded in heavy fog and mist, with a lone pine tree in the foreground silhouetted against the atmospheric conditions, conveying the overwhelming scale and power of the approaching winter weather system.A looming winter storm system brings a dramatic shift in weather to western Montana, blanketing the landscape in a hazy, atmospheric veil of snow and fog.Missoula Today

A cold front and associated trough of low pressure will move through western Montana on Wednesday through Friday, bringing widespread mountain snow and valley rain. Snow levels are expected to drop to most valley floors by Wednesday afternoon, creating minor to moderate travel impacts on area passes with 2 to 8 inches of snow possible by Thursday morning. Highs will drop into the upper 40s to low 50s on Wednesday and the low to mid 40s on Thursday.

Why it matters

This mid-week weather system will impact travel conditions across the region, especially for those traveling over mountain passes. The colder temperatures and potential for snow accumulation could also affect agricultural operations and outdoor activities in the area.

The details

The cold front and low-pressure system will move into the region on Wednesday, bringing widespread precipitation. Snow levels are expected to drop to most valley floors by Wednesday afternoon, with 2 to 8 inches of snow possible on area passes by Thursday morning. This could create minor to moderate travel impacts. Valleys will also see snowfall from the showers, though accumulations will be fairly minimal. Temperatures will be colder, with highs in the upper 40s to low 50s on Wednesday and the low to mid 40s on Thursday.

  • The cold front and associated low-pressure system will move into the region on Wednesday.
  • Snow levels are expected to drop to most valley floors by Wednesday afternoon.
  • 2 to 8 inches of snow is possible on area passes by Thursday morning.

The players

Missoula, Montana

The city in western Montana that will be impacted by the mid-week weather system.

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What’s next

Travelers should monitor weather conditions and plan accordingly, as the snow could impact mountain pass travel. Farmers and ranchers in the region should also be prepared for the colder temperatures and potential snowfall.

The takeaway

This mid-week weather system will bring significant changes to the region, with colder temperatures, widespread precipitation, and the potential for snow accumulation on area passes. Residents and travelers should stay informed and prepared for the changing conditions.