Northern Rockies Winter 2026 Forecast: La Niña to Deliver Snowy Season Across Idaho and Montana
BOISE, Idaho — The Northern Rockies are preparing for a snow-packed and colder-than-normal winter, as a developing La Niña pattern in the Pacific Ocean sets the stage for frequent snowstorms and subzero nights across Idaho and Montana through early 2026.
Frequent Snow Systems and Below-Normal Temperatures
Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Missoula say a northwest flow aloft will guide a steady stream of clipper systems into the region, repeatedly reinforcing cold Arctic air and fresh snowfall from the Bitterroot Range to Glacier National Park.
Temperatures are projected to run 3 to 6 degrees below average at times, with the coldest outbreaks likely arriving in January and February.
“It’s shaping up to be a true Northern Rockies winter,” forecasters said. “Frequent cold snaps, deep snowpack, and icy conditions will challenge travelers and livestock operations alike.”
Impacts on Ranching and Rural Travel
Ranchers across central Idaho and western Montana are preparing for an early start to livestock sheltering and extended snow cover. Highway crews are also bracing for persistent plowing operations along Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 93, where blowing snow and ice will frequently impact travel.
Utility companies are encouraging residents to insulate exposed pipes, check generators, and inspect heating systems ahead of the season’s first deep freeze.
Avalanche Risk and Outdoor Safety
As mountain snowpack deepens, outdoor recreation enthusiasts are urged to monitor avalanche advisories across the Sawtooth, Bitterroot, and Gallatin ranges. Even early-season storms can produce unstable layers that trigger slides once heavier snow accumulates.
Backcountry skiers and snowmobilers should travel with avalanche beacons, probes, and shovels, and avoid high-risk slopes after major snowfall events.
Snow Totals Expected to Exceed Normal
Historical La Niña patterns suggest above-average snowfall for much of western Montana and central Idaho, with totals potentially exceeding:
- 70 to 90 inches in Missoula and Bozeman
- 100+ inches in McCall and the Salmon-Challis region
- Over 150 inches across higher elevations of the Bitterroots and Glacier Park
While conditions may briefly moderate in March, forecasters expect persistent snowpack and cold mornings to continue well into early spring.
For ongoing Idaho and Montana winter updates, La Niña coverage, and cold-weather safety news, visit NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.