UPDATE: I-90 is closed from Livingston to Big Timber due to severe conditions. The road will be closed overnight. MDT and law enforcement personnel will evaluate road and weather conditions in the morning of Wednesday, February 1st, and determine when the highway will reopen to travel.

The last few days have brought rough weather for much of Montana as the roads, highways, and interstates are covered with snow and ice.  This, of course, makes traveling difficult, and at times, impossible as those traveling on I-90 through Livingston learned firsthand this morning.

The popular stretch of interstate was closed early this morning because of road and weather conditions. Reports of low visibility and slick roads combined with strong winds resulted in several vehicles, including multiple semi-trucks being swept off the road.

The Montana Department of Transportation released the following statement on its website:

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I-90 EB from MP 331.0 to 338.0
Road Closed
Blow Over Warning

Additional Information:
I-90 IS CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC BETWEEN MM 331 AND 338 / DETOUR IN PLACE THROUGH LIVINGSTON / EB TRAFFIC USE EXIT 330 / WB TRAFFIC USE EXIT 337

While traffic was being directed through Livingston, we also received multiple reports of roads in town being hard to navigate as well due to a heavy ice buildup. In fact, according to one report, several vehicles were sliding through the stoplights in town because of the slick conditions.

Winter driving - car breakdown
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The good news is that temperatures will begin to rise today, and throughout the rest of the week in southwestern Montana.  In fact, the National Weather Service is calling for a high of almost 40 degrees by Friday.

If you are traveling by vehicle in winter conditions, you should always make sure that you have the following:

  • Full Tank of Gas
  • Emergency Kit (extra blankets, gloves, hats, snacks, phone charger)
  • Small Shovel
  • Kitty Litter (for extra traction if the vehicle gets stuck)

Here's a link to some helpful websites if you are traveling in Montana.

Credit: Montana Department of Transporation

Here's 8 States That Have Longer And Harsher Winters Than Montana

Winter can be brutal here in Montana with lots of wind, snow, and temperatures well below zero. In fact, that alone should be a word of warning for those thinking of moving here from warmer climates.

A lot goes into being prepared to live in a state with rough winters and if you've never done it before, you certainly need to make sure that you are prepared. You need to make sure you have the right tires, vehicle, and winter clothing. Plus, I would highly suggest you learn how to drive in winter conditions before moving to a state that celebrates winter 6 months out of the year.

And while winters can be very rough here in Montana, we don't even crack the Top 5 for States With The Most Brutal Winters.

Here's The Top 10 Tourists Sites For Those Visiting Montana

Montana is known by several nicknames. Big Sky Country, The Treasure State, and the Last Best Place to name just a few. Each year, millions of folks travel to Montana to partake in its beauty, while often seeking adventure in the outdoors. From skiing to rafting, fly fishing, to snowmobiling, Montana can certainly be described as an outdoor paradise.

No matter the season, there is always something to see and do in Montana. Here's a look at The Top 10 Tourists Sites For Those Visiting Montana.

51 Common Items You Think Montana Goodwill Accepts, But Do not

When it comes to cleaning out the garage, closet, or storage unit, it's important to remember that many places are in need of donations of many different sorts.

It is also important to know that there are things that places, like Goodwill, DO NOT take. For many different reasons, here is a list of items that Goodwill will NOT accept as donations.

There is also a list of games that do not follow the Consumer Product Safety Standards. Call (800-638-2772).

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