Much of Montana and Wyoming experienced dangerous, hurricane-force winds on Thursday, with gusts reaching as high as 105 mph in some areas. While the intense winds are thankfully diminishing tonight, a significant winter storm is moving in, bringing the threat of heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions through the weekend. Meteorologist Jason Stiff of KTVQ and MTN is tracking the storm and providing the latest forecasts.
The powerful storm system brought widespread disruption across the region, with reports of downed trees and power outages. High Wind Warnings were in effect throughout much of Thursday, but are scheduled to expire at 9 PM local time. As the winds subside, attention is turning to the incoming snow, which began falling overnight and is expected to intensify Friday and Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings for most of the lower and higher elevations, remaining in effect through early Sunday morning.
Winter Storm Impacts: Travel Concerns and Heavy Snowfall
Travel is expected to become increasingly difficult as the snow accumulates. Jason Stiff warns that travel will be “not advisable in many areas” due to the potential for hazardous conditions. Mountain areas are forecast to receive 1 to 3 feet of snow through early Sunday, while lower elevations could see accumulations of 6 to 12 inches. Temperatures will also plummet, with highs in the 30s and much colder lows expected throughout the weekend.
According to Stiff, the heaviest snowfall is anticipated between Friday evening and Saturday evening. The combination of strong winds and heavy snow could create blizzard-like conditions in some areas, further exacerbating travel difficulties. Residents are urged to prepare for potential power outages and to avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm.
Meteorologist Jason Stiff on the Changing Weather Pattern
Jason Stiff, a Montana native who joined KTVQ in September 2023, has been providing updates on the storm’s progress. He earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in meteorology from the University of Utah and is a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist from the American Meteorological Society (AMS), having earned the designation in 2005. He previously worked as Chief Meteorologist at Action News Now in Chico, California, from 2020-2023, and has also worked in Utah, Idaho, Washington, New Mexico, and California.
Stiff notes that a shift in the weather pattern is expected next week, with stronger winds and rising temperatures. Highs are forecast to climb from the 40s to the 70s as the region transitions to a more spring-like pattern. You can find his latest forecast and updates on KTVQ’s website.
On June 7, 2025, Stiff posted on Instagram about a cold front that cooled the region but also brought gusty winds and smoke from fires.
Looking Ahead: Transition to Warmer Temperatures
While the immediate focus is on navigating the current winter storm, the forecast indicates a return to milder conditions next week. Residents should remain vigilant and monitor the latest forecasts from KTVQ and other reliable sources as the storm progresses. The transition to warmer temperatures will bring a welcome change, but also the potential for increased fire danger as the snowpack melts.
Stay informed about the latest weather updates and share this information with your friends and family. What are your preparations for the winter storm? Let us know in the comments below.
