Billings, MT – A white Christmas remains possible for Montana, including billings, despite a near-normal temperature and precipitation forecast for the December 13-26 holiday period, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Governance (NOAA). While the current long-range guidance doesn’t indicate a high probability of major winter storms, the potential for fast-hitting cold snaps and Rockies storm systems means snowfall – and a festive white landscape – cannot be ruled out.
NOAA’s latest outlook places Montana within a broad “Near Normal” zone for both temperature and precipitation during the latter half of December. This neutral pattern typically brings a mix of milder temperatures and brief,sharp cold fronts,both capable of producing accumulating snow across the northern Rockies and adjacent plains.
Meteorologists emphasize Montana’s geographic characteristics – its elevation and proximity to the Canadian Prairies – make it prone to snowfall even during neutral weather patterns. Cities like Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Helena, and bozeman often experience december snowfall driven by Pacific weather systems crossing the Rockies, especially when combined with Arctic air.
Even slight temperature drops can shift precipitation to snow, and Eastern Montana, which typically experiences earlier Arctic air intrusion, may see increased chances of snowfall if a storm coincides with a colder air surge.
Forecasters are particularly watching the December 18-24 timeframe, historically an active period for the northern Rockies and northern Plains. Any system moving through during this window could cause travel disruptions along I-90 and I-15, especially if colder air intensifies.
Currently, no specific storms are predicted, but the possibility of holiday snowfall – and a white Christmas – remains viable as the weather pattern develops.
