High Wind Warning Issued for South Central Montana and North Central Wyoming; Gusts Up to 70 MPH Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Billings, MT has issued a High Wind Warning (NWS Alert Type: HWW) for portions of south central Montana and north central Wyoming. The warning is effective from 11:00 PM MST Monday, February 16, through 8:00 PM MST Tuesday, February 17.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Montana: Red Lodge Foothills, Southern Big Horn, Southeastern Carbon, Bighorn Canyon, and the Pryor/Northern Bighorn Mountains.
• Wyoming: Northeast Bighorn Mountains and the Sheridan Foothills.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are advised to remain in the lower levels of their homes during the windstorm and stay away from windows. Be alert for falling debris and tree limbs. If you must drive, use extreme caution, particularly if operating a high-profile vehicle. Due to warm and dry conditions, there is a risk of rapid fire spread; residents should use caution with any burning activities.

Expected Conditions

• Wind Speed: Southwest wind gusts are expected to reach up to 70 mph.
• Hazards: Damaging winds are likely to blow down trees and power lines, leading to scattered power outages. Travel will be difficult for high-profile vehicles.
• Meteorological Details: Mountain wave activity is expected to bring strong, damaging southwest winds during the early morning hours. Winds will transition to the west and northwest as a cold front moves through the region mid-day Tuesday.

Timeline

• Onset: Monday, February 16 at 11:00 PM MST.
• Duration: The warning remains in effect through Tuesday, February 17 at 8:00 PM MST.