Numerous Crashes on I-90 West – Gusty Winds for Travelers
On the busiest travel day of the year, drivers in western Montana are experiencing a variety of weather and road conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
Meteorologist Luke Robinson said the worst of the winds have come and gone, but there are still strong gusts in the area.
“Expect those breezy conditions to continue, but we’ve probably hit our peak winds gusts for this afternoon,” said Robinson. “We’ll have a chilly morning for Thanksgiving with a few light snow showers around the area, but we’re not expecting any real accumulations. There will be another round of light snow for Black Friday into the afternoon and evening, and there could be an inch or so of snow.”
Robinson said those traveling east of Missoula will face the worst of the winter weather.
“All along the Continental Divide we’re seeing severe driving conditions, particularly on Rogers Pass and Marias Pass,” he said. “McDonald and Homestake Passes are slick and snow covered, but conditions are not severe as of Wednesday afternoon. Travelers can expect to see slow traffic on snowy and icy roads headed east of Missoula.”
Those traveling west will encounter slick roads, as well.
“On I-90 west, particularly between Superior and Lookout Pass is very slick, and we’ve had numerous vehicle accidents along I-90,” he said. “Those conditions will improve as the storms move out of the area.”
Robinson advises anyone driving to make sure they have winter tires as road conditions can change rapidly.