GREAT FALLS The first frost of the season has arrived in Great Falls, a reminder that winter is just around the corner. As the mornings become cooler and the leaves change color, Montanans begin to prepare for the winter ahead.

According to MTN meteorologist Erik Johnson, we are experiencing a typical La Nia year. "That means cooler-than-normal temperatures and above-average snow for the early part of the season. It will probably cool down a little bit quicker this year, and well get more snow a little bit faster.

La Nia is a weather phenomenon characterized by strong trade winds pushing cold water across the Pacific Ocean. This results in cooler air temperatures and wetter conditions in regions of the United States. Johnson said this year's early chill was caused by a storm system that

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