BOZEMAN – This week’s near-record highs will end abruptly as a strong Pacific cold front moves through Montana Wednesday night and Thursday.

Ahead of the front, Wednesday temperatures will remain very warm with increasing gusts at the surface.

Behind the front, temperatures could drop to above 40 degrees on Friday afternoon.

Moisture is present with this system and snow is expected again, especially for the mountain ranges in southwestern Montana. There may be some mixed rain/snow in the lower valleys and even brief periods of valley snow which should melt as it hits the ground or shortly thereafter.

Winter storm warnings are in effect for the mountain ranges in Madison, Gallatin and Park Counties from Thursday morning through Friday afternoon.

Snow accumulations below 25,000 feet, including Big Sky, could see 4 to 6 inches of snow. Above 7,000′ 6”-14” snow is possible.

The rest of SW Montana will see periods of light to moderate snow across most mountain ranges Thursday through Friday morning with possible travel impacts for higher passes.

This storm system will leave the region Friday afternoon and with clear skies, much colder lows can be expected in the morning, with a hard freeze likely in the lower valleys.