High Wind Warning Issued for Rocky Mountain Front and Northern High Plains in Montana
A High Wind Warning is in effect for North Central Montana, featuring wind gusts up to 100 mph and potential power outages through Sunday night.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Great Falls has issued a High Wind Warning for the Rocky Mountain Front and adjacent plains. This alert indicates a high probability of severe wind conditions that could lead to property damage and hazardous travel.
Affected Areas
The warning covers several regions and counties in Montana, including:
- East Glacier Park Region
- Northern High Plains
- Eastern Glacier, Western Toole, and Central Pondera Counties
- Southern Rocky Mountain Front
- Southern High Plains
What You Should Do
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take the following precautions:
- Secure all loose outdoor objects that could be blown away or cause damage.
- Consider delaying travel during the period of highest winds or finding an alternate route.
- If travel is necessary, use extreme caution, especially when operating high-profile vehicles.
- Prepare for potential power outages due to downed trees and power lines.
Expected Conditions
Westerly winds are forecast to reach sustained speeds between 40 and 60 mph. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 85 mph generally, with isolated gusts exceeding 100 mph anticipated along the immediate eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountain Front. NWS officials note that the magnitude and duration of winds on Sunday may be comparable to the significant wind event of December 17th.
Timeline
The High Wind Warning is effective starting at 2:00 AM MST Saturday, March 7. The warning is scheduled to remain in effect until midnight MDT Sunday night, March 8.
Source: NOAA Official Notice