Moderate snow accumulations expected at ski resort

The slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort could get a healthy dose of winter weather this week. Light to moderate snowfall accumulations are expected Monday, good news for skiers counting down the days to the resort’s Dec. 8 opening day.

As of Saturday, there is a 12-inch settle base at the summit of Big Mountain. There is about an inch of snow in the village area.

The National Weather Service in Missoula predicts the next round of precipitation will begin and intensify Monday. The mountains around Whitefish above 6,000 feet could see 3-5 inches of snow Monday evening, and an additional 3-5 inches Tuesday.

Temperatures are expected to be in the low to mid 30s. Optimal temps for snowmaking machines are in the low 20s and teens.

The annual Pray for Snow Party at the Bierstube is Saturday, Nov. 24 at 7 p.m.