Winter Storm Warnings in Great Falls, Montana
Great Falls sits on the high plains east of the Rocky Mountain Front, where cold Arctic air masses regularly funnel southward and collide with Pacific moisture. Despite this dramatic setting, the city averages a relatively modest 39.4 inches (100.1 cm) of snowfall per year, based on thirteen years of data spanning 2012 through 2024. The snowiest stretch of the calendar tends to fall across February, December, and January, when temperatures are coldest and storm tracks most favorable for accumulating snow.
Notably, Great Falls recorded an average of zero heavy or major snow days per year over that same period, meaning the kind of single-storm, extreme-accumulation events that trigger the most severe warning categories are exceptionally rare here. Average winter overnight lows hover around 18.5 °F (−7.5 °C), cold enough to keep fallen snow on the ground for extended periods.
A winter storm warning signals that hazardous conditions — significant snow, blowing and drifting, or dangerous wind chills — are expected imminently. It is the highest-tier winter storm alert, indicating conditions that could make travel dangerous or impossible. Importantly, the snowfall thresholds that trigger a warning vary by region; what qualifies in Great Falls may differ from criteria used in lower-elevation or southern areas. Always follow guidance from your local National Weather Service office.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 39.4 in (100.1 cm) |
| Snowiest months | February, December, January |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 18.5°F (−7.5°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Great Falls within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Great Falls winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Great Falls right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Great Falls, Montana. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Great Falls get winter storm warnings often?
Great Falls sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Great Falls?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Great Falls?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Montana authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Helena, MT
- Winter storm warning in Bozeman, MT
- Winter storm warning in Missoula, MT
- Winter storm warning in Billings, MT
- Winter storm warning in Jackson, WY
- Winter storm warning in Idaho Falls, ID
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.