Traveler Information Road Conditions
MDT reminds travelers to slow down and drive for winter conditions, give our snowplows room to work, and don't forget to buckle up!
The Montana Department of Transportation Traveler Information Program provides information focused on the State of Montana including road conditions, construction projects, traveler incidents, camera images, weather information, and more.
MDT's winter road reporting season spans from November through April. During this time, road conditions are reported based on first hand observations of our snowplow drivers and updated at least twice a day or as major changes occur. Reports are based on the majority condition present for a pre-defined roadway segment which may include several miles (with various conditions). Travelers should also be mindful that conditions do change quickly and should be alert for both improving and worsening conditions.
The primary goal is to provide Montana travelers with the most timely and accurate information available, however information is not necessarily real time so travelers should plan accordingly.
Of course, winter conditions can occur at any time in Montana so during the non-reporting season, roadway conditions are reported, as necessary during winter storm events. If conditions are reported as dry they will not appear on the Detail Report, and fall/spring showers resulting in wet roads are not typically reported unless there is significant impact to the traveling public.
Public safety and winter maintenance are top priorities for the Department. The MDT Maintenance Division provides support and services for approximately 25,000 miles of roadway with 700 plow operators and 550 snowplows statewide.
To put that into perspective... we maintain enough miles of roadway to circle one time around the center of the earth with just a single pass during a winter storm, so remember our plows are working even if you don't always encounter them.
Road Conditions Images
Disclaimer: The images below are provided "as-is" without any warranty of any kind. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) makes no representations or warranties whatsoever with respect to the accuracy or completeness of this information and assumes no responsibility for the suitability of this information for a particular purpose; and MDT will not be liable for any damages incurred as a result of the errors in this information.
What Does Severe Driving Conditions Mean?
Conditions on roads reported as "severe driving" are extreme and travelers should consider altering or temporarily delaying travel plans in that area. Severe driving conditions are typically a combination of snow, ice, blowing and drifting snow, and poor visibility. Severe driving conditions may warrant a complete closure until conditions improve.
Why We Sometimes Close Roads
Roads may be closed due to extremely hazardous conditions or an accident (especially one involving a fatality). Blocked lanes due to an avalanche, rock slide or accident may also force a road closure. Travelers should NEVER travel on a road that is closed. During a closure crews are working in this area to expedite re-opening the road.
More Information
MDT Traveler Information
Tow Plows Videos
Weather
Winter Driving
Urgent Weather Messages
Winter Weather Messages
Snowplow Safety
Always remember to give snowplows room to work. MDT crews often work in tandem to pull snow from the median and other areas to reduce snow accumulation and avoid thaw/freeze ice conditions.
When approaching a snow cloud caused by a plow truck, slow down and back off.
Learn more: Winter Driving Tips