MISSOULA – This is the last day of our strong ridge of high pressure bringing warm and hazy weather to western Montana. Today’s highs are again in the 70s.

Changes will begin Wednesday as a cold front approaches the region. Highs Wednesday will top out in the 60s, with scattered rain showers also available.

The front will pass through Wednesday night, dropping highs into the 40s Thursday and Friday.

The rain will change to snow in the mountains on Wednesday night and Thursday.

This is the first chance that mountain passes will pick up snow. Figures show about 1″-to-3″ possible for Lolo and Lost Trail passes, along with Discover Ski Area and Georgetown Lake

In the valleys, mainly light rain will fall until Thursday.

Drier weather starts Friday into the weekend with highs in the 50s and 60s on Saturday and Sunday.