Road conditions

First ice of the season hits I-90 in Montana as early storm snarls Homestake Pass

Drivers reported backups and a semi crash at Homestake Pass on Oct. 11; icy patches lingered into Monday morning between Bearmouth and Warm Springs.

By CDLWire · Published October 13, 2026

Summarized from CDLLife.

A semi truck driving through snow and ice on a mountain interstate pass with snow-covered pines

Winter arrived early on Interstate 90 in western Montana, with drivers reporting some of the season's first icy conditions and a semi truck crash at Homestake Pass, according to CDLLife on Oct. 12.

Challenging driving conditions were first reported on Sunday, October 11, at Homestake Pass along I-90 in Montana. Traffic backed up at the pass, visible on area traffic cameras, and at least one accident involving a semi truck was reported, according to NBC Montana.

By Monday morning, October 12, more incidents had been reported on I-90, and icy patches were reported along the interstate between Bearmouth and Warm Springs. Incidents through the early morning blocked lanes on I-90, limiting room for drivers trying to pass through.

Multiple winter storm warnings were issued Saturday evening. Most of those warnings expired at 6 a.m. on Monday, October 12, with a few stretching until noon.

Drivers heading across western Montana should check official Montana road conditions before rolling and expect lingering ice on shaded grades and passes even after warnings expire. Homestake Pass is one of the first places on I-90 to turn slick each season, and this storm is an early reminder to have chains, winter gear, and extra following distance ready.