Montana map shows where high winds are expected to make travel difficult

Parts of northern Montana are forecasted to experience high winds that are expected to make travel difficult, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

Why It Matters

The NWS warned in statements issued on Wednesday that high winds can not only worsen road conditions but also move debris, damage property and cause power outages.

What To Know

The NWS issued a high wind warning early Wednesday morning for Eastern Glacier, Western Toole and Central Pondera Counties. The warning took effect at 6 a.m. MST Wednesday and will last until 6 a.m. MST Thursday.

The weather service warned of west winds of 35 to 45 mph. Wind gusts can reach up to 60 mph, according to forecasters.

“The strongest winds are expected to occur west of a line from Valier, to Cut Bank, to Santa Rita, with routes like Montana Highway 44 west of Valier and US Highway 2 west of Cut Bank being the most impacted,” the NWS said.

In another weather message issued early Wednesday morning, forecasters warned of high winds in the Northern High Plains that will continue until 6 a.m. MST Thursday.

“The strongest winds are expected to occur along and west of the US Highway 89 corridor, most notably in and near the Badger Creek and Two Medicine River valleys between Browning and the Montana Highway 44 Junction,” the warning said.

West winds are expected to be between 45 and 55 mph, according to the NWS. Wind gusts can reach 75 mph, the weather service said.

What Is A High Wind Warning?

The NWS issues a high wind warning when there are sustained winds of 40 mph or higher for an hour or more or when wind gusts are 58 mph or higher for any period. A high wind warning is more severe than a high wind watch in which the weather conditions mentioned above are expected rather than just possible.

What People Are Saying

The National Weather Service (NWS) warned in its Wednesday high wind warnings, “People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around
or damaged by the wind.”

What Happens Next

Montana residents can check local weather forecasts for the latest information on their areas. The NWS issues regular updates on its website.

The NWS advises people to secure their property before high winds hit such as removing dead trees or overhanging branches near your house ahead of any storm. They also recommend removing any loose roofing materials or objects on your property that could be carried by the high winds. If a wind warning is issued, the weather service tells people in the affected areas to make sure their windows are securely closed and brace outside doors.