Montana is entering another day of oppressive heat and late-afternoon storms, with multiple heat advisories and extreme heat warnings in effect across parts of central and eastern Montana and extending into northern Wyoming. Temperatures will stay well into the 80s and 90s in many places, and some eastern communities may again reach the low 100s.
What residents should expect today
Forecasters say scattered thunderstorms are possible across central Montana, primarily developing near the Idaho–Montana border in the early afternoon and tracking north and east through the evening. The overall severe threat is modest — rated level 1 out of 5 — but storms that do become severe may produce damaging winds of about 60 mph or greater.
These storms typically intensify as they move northeast. By roughly 6 p.m., meteorologists expect the most mature cells to be producing periods of heavy rain and strong wind across central counties. Slow-moving storms could drop intense rainfall over small areas, increasing the chance of brief, localized flooding in low-lying or poorly drained locations.
Safety steps and local impacts
Officials are urging residents to take heat precautions and to be prepared for sudden changes in weather this afternoon and evening. Practical steps include:
- Drink plenty of water and avoid prolonged outdoor exertion during the hottest hours.
- Check on elderly relatives and neighbors and keep children and pets out of the heat.
- Have a plan to seek shelter quickly if storms produce strong winds or sudden downpours.
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways; even shallow water can stall vehicles or hide hazards.
Nighttime temperatures will remain uncomfortably warm, generally in the 60s and 70s, offering little relief from daytime heat. Heat advisories and extreme heat warnings are expected to remain in effect through today and into the next few days in some areas, with specific expiration times varying by location.
| Threat | Areas | Potential timing |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme heat / Heat advisories | Central and eastern Montana, northern Wyoming | Today, with alerts continuing into the coming days |
| Isolated severe storms | Central Montana (developing near Idaho–Montana border) | Afternoon into the evening (maturing around 6 p.m.) |
| Damaging winds & brief flooding | Along storm tracks in central Montana | Evening |
Tomorrow brings another chance for showers and thunderstorms over roughly the same area. Residents who live in flood-prone locations or who work outdoors should monitor local forecasts and be ready to adjust plans.
Local health and safety agencies recommend limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and ensuring access to air-conditioned spaces. Keep water available for people and animals, and follow guidance from county emergency managers and local officials as conditions evolve.
