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Winter storm is causing slick driving conditions in Montana and Wyoming

A screenshot of the snowfall forecast for Montana and Wyoming, October 12, 2021.
National Weather Service
A screenshot of the snowfall forecast for Montana and Wyoming, October 12, 2021.

Most of south-central Montana is under a winter storm warning until 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Winter weather has rolled into Montana and northern Wyoming this week, dumping 16 inches of snow in Great Falls and causing slick driving conditions across the state.

Traffic on Bozeman Pass at 5:45 a.m. Oct. 12, 2021.
Billings National Weather Service
Traffic on Bozeman Pass at 5:45 a.m. Oct. 12, 2021.

The National Weather Service in Billings says accidents and slide-offs Tuesday morning caused a backup of traffic on the Bozeman pass.

According to the Montana Highway Patrol’s most recent crash fatality report, nearly 20% of fatal accidents this year occurred when the road wasn’t dry. The National Weather Service says the first snow of the year can cause increased hazards as people adjust to winter driving. The NWS recommends turning off cruise control, lowering driving speeds and preparing for longer commute times.

You can check current road conditions by dialing 511 or visiting 511mt.net.