An extreme heat watch is in effect for much of central and eastern Montana for Saturday and Sunday, and extends into Monday for parts of southeast Montana, while a heat advisory covers much of west-central Montana — including Helena and Great Falls — from Saturday through Monday.
What residents can expect
Temperatures will climb into the 90s and low 100s across most of the state this weekend, with some southern and eastern locations forecast to reach between 100 and 110 degrees. Meteorologists described the period as potentially the hottest weekend of 2026 so far.
The heat will begin building Friday, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s statewide. Saturday and Sunday bring the most significant warming: most areas will see highs in the 90s to low 100s. Temperatures should cool slightly Monday but remain near the 90s to around 100. Thunderstorm chances increase again Tuesday and Wednesday, which could bring some relief.
Wind, smoke and fire risk
Winds will pick up over the weekend, raising the wildfire threat. Forecasts call for afternoon gusts out of the west at about 10 to 20 mph in western Montana, with hot, dry and breezy conditions likely to make Saturday the day of highest fire danger.
Light to moderate amounts of wildfire smoke are also expected to be drawn into the state with southwest flow aloft, producing hazy skies through the hot stretch.
“Please prepare for this heat now, as to make sure you and kids and pets and livestock will be cool,”
The advisory notices and meteorologists emphasize planning ahead: stock up on water, identify cooling locations, and limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours.
- Friday: Upper 80s to low 90s statewide; gusts 10-20 mph; stray storms possible in southwest Montana.
- Saturday–Sunday: Most of Montana in the 90s to low 100s; southern/eastern zones possibly 100–110; highest fire danger Saturday.
- Monday: Slight cooldown but many areas still in the upper 80s to low 90s; isolated storms returning in parts of southwest Montana.
- Tuesday–Wednesday: Thunderstorms more likely, offering potential relief.
Local temperature context
Record high marks illustrate how exceptional the heat could be in places, with historical highs listed for comparison.
| Location | Record high (date) | Average high |
|---|---|---|
| Missoula | 105 (1973) | 84 |
| Kalispell | 102 (1973) | 81 |
| Hamilton | 102 (1973) | 83 |
Practical guidance
Officials urge Montanans to take precautions now: ensure access to cool water, check on children and older adults, provide shade and water for pets and livestock, and avoid outdoor exertion during peak heat. Fire managers caution against activities that could spark wildfires while conditions are hot, dry and windy.
Forecasters say this hot spell could rank among the warmest weekends of the year for many communities. Watch local National Weather Service products and county alerts for updates, and be prepared to adjust plans as conditions evolve.
Reporting from Helena and the statewide forecast offices.
