High Wind Warning Issued for Southwest Montana with Gusts Up to 70 MPH Expected

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Southwest Montana

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for Southwest Montana, including the I-90 corridor, effective Wednesday as winds reach 70 mph.

Alert Details

A High Wind Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Great Falls, MT. The warning is in effect for several regions in Southwest Montana as significant wind speeds are expected to impact the area.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

  • Meagher County Valleys
  • Elkhorn and Boulder Mountains
  • Canyon Ferry Area
  • Missouri Headwaters
  • Madison River Valley
  • Gallatin Valley
  • Beaverhead and Western Madison below 6000ft

Specific travel impacts are expected along the Interstate 90 corridor between Bozeman and Whitehall, as well as the Madison and Beaverhead River Valleys.

Expected Conditions

Residents should prepare for sustained west winds of 30 to 40 mph. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 70 mph, with locally higher gusts possible near the Continental Divide.

Additionally, convective snowbands are possible on Wednesday between 4 AM and 12 PM. These bands may impact the morning commute and cause sudden changes in road and weather conditions, particularly for those traveling along I-90.

Timeline

The High Wind Warning is effective from 2 AM to 11 PM MST on Wednesday, February 25.

What You Should Do

The National Weather Service urges residents to take the following precautions:

  • Secure all loose outdoor objects that could be blown around or damaged by high winds.
  • Use extra caution if driving, especially for those operating high-profile vehicles, as travel will be difficult.
  • Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for further updates.
  • Prepare for potential property damage and power outages caused by flying debris.

Source: NOAA Official Notice