NWS: winter storm this weekend could be "historic"

The National Weather Service in Great Falls said on Thursday afternoon: "Strong winds could also bring near blizzard conditions across the Rocky Mountain Front. This storm could be historic in the amount of snow and the cold temperatures that follow. Use this time to prepare your home, vehicles, and anything else that may be impacted from widespread heavy snow."

The approaching storm has prompted some temporary closures at Glacier National Park. Park officials say that the east side of the Going To The Sun Road is closed at Jackson Glacier Overlook. Going To The Sun Road remains closed through September 29 between Avalanche Creek to Logan Pass on the westside for pavement preservation. The Many Glacier campground closed at noon on Thursday and the Two Medicine Campground will close Friday morning. While St. Mary Campground remains open, park officials are advising against camping there.

The forecast has already prompted the Great Falls Farmers Market to cancel Saturday's planned market, the first time it has done so due to snow/weather.

Colder air will invade the state on Friday. This will be met head-on by significant moisture being drawn from the Pacific Ocean. These colliding weather systems are expected to produce significant snow for a good chunk of Central Montana. Temperatures for much of the region on Saturday will likely be in the 20s to low 30s, with wind-chill factors dropping to near zero in some areas.