Residents across western and central Montana should prepare for another day of thunderstorms that could reach severe levels, with the highest risk this afternoon and into the evening.
When and where to expect storms
Thunderstorms areforecast to initiate over southwest Montana and along the Rocky Mountain Front between about 2 and 3 p.m. Friday, then spread northward. Meteorologists say coverage should be broader than the previous day, and storm tracks will tend to move north rather than northeast.
What hazards to watch for
The strongest cells could produce damaging straight-line winds and hail. Officials warned of:
- Wind gusts up to about 60 mph
- Hail roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter
- Erratic thunderstorms into the overnight hours in parts of northwest Montana
"Be sure to head indoors if a warning is issued for your area."
When warnings are issued by the National Weather Service, residents should move indoors, avoid travel if possible and secure loose outdoor items. Weather radios, local media and official agency alerts remain the best immediate sources for specific warning polygons and timing.
Weekend outlook and related concerns
Thunderstorm activity is expected to continue into Saturday, with a few stronger storms possible. Most of western Montana is forecast to be drier on Saturday, though afternoon storms may develop over the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains. The Helena and Great Falls areas face a greater chance for afternoon storms.
Temperatures will climb into the 90s across many areas this weekend. Westerly winds will strengthen Sunday, with gusts around 20–30 mph, which, combined with hot and dry conditions, could elevate fire danger.
Smoke from wildfires burning in Washington, Idaho and Oregon is expected to be transported into Montana as those westerly winds develop. That may reduce air quality regionally, especially for communities downwind of large fires.
| Timing | Primary hazard |
|---|---|
| Friday afternoon (2–3 p.m. start) | Strong winds, hail |
| Friday night | Isolated thunderstorm activity (northwest MT) |
| Saturday | Scattered storms, mostly drier west of Divide |
| Sunday | Wind increases, higher fire danger, smoke transport |
Local emergency management offices, county sheriffs and the National Weather Service are the primary authorities for issuing watches and warnings. Motorists should be ready for sudden downpours and reduced visibility, and anglers, campers and others recreating outdoors should have an indoor shelter plan if storms intensify quickly.
For the most current, location-specific guidance, check National Weather Service forecasts and local alerting systems before travel or outdoor plans.
