Montanans Should Watch for This New Winter Weather Warning
As we look ahead to another Montana winter, the National Weather Service is reminding residents to be prepared for potentially dangerous weather conditions. There is also a new warning designation that Montanans should know about before the snow and ice arrive.
El Niño's Impact on Seasonal Forecasts
We've been hearing plenty of predictions about the upcoming winter, including forecasts for a potentially powerful El Niño. The Old Farmer's Almanac and the Farmers' Almanac have also shared their winter predictions.
READ MORE: NOAA’s Updated Montana Winter Forecast Isn’t Great News for Snow
The National Weather Service has been keeping an eye on the developing weather patterns, too. Its outlook for western Montana calls for warmer-than-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation.
Those conditions could create some challenges, particularly in the valleys.
The Dangers of Freezing Rain This Winter
Under the right atmospheric conditions, parts of Montana could see an increased risk of freezing rain this winter. Freezing rain can be especially dangerous because it creates a layer of ice on roads, sidewalks, and other surfaces, making travel extremely hazardous.
READ MORE: NOAA and Old Farmer’s Almanac Disagree on Montana’s Winter
There is another development from the National Weather Service that deserves attention.
New this season, the National Weather Service is expanding its use of “Particularly Dangerous Situation” (PDS) wording to select Blizzard Warnings and Ice Storm Warnings.
According to the National Weather Service, this language is reserved for rare, potentially historic weather events when forecasters "have high confidence" that extreme conditions pose an exceptional threat to life and critical infrastructure.
In other words, this isn't language you'll see in an ordinary winter weather warning.
The National Weather Service says the new wording is reserved for unusually extreme winter storms, not routine snow or ice events. Montanans should pay close attention to these warnings as another winter approaches.
What to Do When PDS Warnings Are Issued
The next time you're checking a winter forecast or watching for a winter storm warning, pay attention to the wording. If the National Weather Service issues a Particularly Dangerous Situation warning, take it seriously and act immediately.
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Gallery Credit: Jesse James
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