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Hydrologic Outlook
National Weather Service Great Falls MT
1214 PM MST Sat Feb 22 2025

...Ice Jams and Localized Lower-elevation Flooding Possible...

Warming temperatures through next week will lead to changes in
river ice conditions and an increased risk of river ice breakup
and the potential for ice jams. Lower elevation snowmelt and
still frozen ground could also lead to some increased runoff into
creeks and rivers, adding to the potential for river ice breakup.
Ice jams are unpredictable and flooding can rapidly occur, so
those with interests along waterways should monitor water levels
over the coming week and take action should flooding occur.

Additionally, frozen ground after a prolonged cold period and
melting snow may result in standing water in areas of poor
drainage. This could create difficult access to fields and impact
some rural roads. As temperatures warm up more early next week and
the ground begins to thaw, muddy conditions may create additional
impacts. The greatest risk for overland impacts from snowmelt
look to be from eastern portions of Teton and Pondera counties
across portions of Cascade and Chouteau counties and most lower
elevation areas in Judith Basin and Fergus counties, where water
equivalent in the lower elevation snowpack ranges from around 1.0"
to as much as 3.0 to 4.0" in portions of Fergus county. These
areas are also most susceptible to overnight temperatures
remaining near or above freezing tonight through early next week.
Across Southwestern Montana, there is significant water content in
the snowpack in the Gallatin valley, however melting will likely
be slower with overnight temperatures continuing to fall below
freezing.

Stay tuned to the forecast for the latest temperature trends, along
with any warnings or advisories that may be issued. Please report
any flooding to local law enforcement. Do not drive over flooded
roadways as the roadbed may be washed out. Turn Around, Don`t Drown.

$$