Missoula, Montana – Northwest Montana is facing a significant weather threat on Monday evening through Tuesday morning, with damaging winds expected to impact the Glacier and Flathead regions. The National Weather Service in Missoula has issued a high wind watch, with winds reaching speeds of up to 55 mph, posing risks of power outages, downed trees, and dangerous travel conditions.
Unusual July Cold Front Brings Strong Winds
A rare July cold front moving south and west from Canada will bring north to east winds of 20 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph to areas including the Kootenai/Cabinet Region, West Glacier, Flathead, and Mission Valleys. The high wind watch is in effect from Monday afternoon for the Glacier region, and from Monday evening for the Flathead and Mission Valleys, lasting until late Tuesday morning.
Areas Affected by Strong Winds
Communities such as Libby, Eureka, Whitefish, Kalispell, and Polson are expected to experience hazardous conditions. These include the potential for downed power lines, fallen trees, and challenging travel, particularly for high-profile vehicles traveling on U.S. Highway 2, Montana Highway 35, and routes around Glacier National Park. Boaters should avoid Lake Koocanusa, Flathead Lake, Lake McDonald, and other nearby waterways due to rapidly shifting winds and the risk of thunderstorms creating dangerous conditions.
Outdoor Safety Recommendations
Residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for the storm by securing loose outdoor items and avoiding setting up tents or campers beneath trees while camping. Strong winds, along with the threat of thunderstorms, could bring lightning, small hail, and heavy rain, particularly in higher terrain and channeled valleys.
Travel Safety and Hazardous Conditions
Travel in the affected areas could become hazardous, especially for vehicles that are high-profile, such as trucks or RVs, which may be difficult to control in strong winds. Drivers should stay alert to changing conditions and be prepared for possible road closures or difficult driving situations.
This rare weather event is expected to bring unusually strong winds to northwest Montana, with risks of power outages, property damage, and difficult travel conditions. Residents should stay informed on updates from local weather sources and prepare for potentially dangerous conditions. The threat of thunderstorms and hazardous winds is significant, so safety precautions are crucial.
