High Wind Warning Issued for Big Belt Mountains and Missouri Headwaters Through Sunday Night

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Central Montana

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for several Montana regions, with gusts up to 65 mph expected to cause difficult travel and potential power outages.

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Great Falls, MT, has issued a High Wind Warning for several mountain ranges and valleys in Montana. This alert signifies a high probability—at least 80%—of sustained winds reaching 40 mph or gusts exceeding 58 mph during the warning period.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

  • Big Belt, Bridger, and Castle Mountains
  • Meagher County Valleys
  • Elkhorn and Boulder Mountains
  • Canyon Ferry Area
  • Missouri Headwaters

What You Should Do

Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor objects that could be blown around or damaged by the wind. Travel will be difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles. Residents should also be prepared for potential property damage and power outages caused by wind-blown debris.

Expected Conditions

Southwest winds are expected to range between 30 and 40 mph, with gusts reaching up to 65 mph, particularly in wind-prone areas. The National Weather Service also warns that localized blowing dust and snow are possible, which may impact visibility.

Timeline

The High Wind Warning is effective from 3:00 AM Sunday, March 8, until midnight MDT Sunday night.

Source: NOAA Official Notice