Recent storms have produced sharply different early-season snowpack levels across western Montana, with the Upper Missouri Basin measuring about twice its typical amount for this point in the year while the Kootenai and Flathead basins are near one-quarter of their usual levels.

An earlier storm helped widen the regional differences after bringing substantial snowfall to parts of southwest Montana. Nearly a foot of snow fell near Philipsburg.

Early readings remain changeable

Snowpack percentages this early in the season can give an incomplete picture. A basin listed near 200% of normal may still have only a few inches of snow on the ground.

Temperatures continue to fluctuate, allowing snow to melt soon after it accumulates. As a result, snowpack figures could change significantly in the coming days.

Reports issued as November and the winter months approach are expected to provide a clearer assessment of conditions and possible implications for the region’s water supply.