Billings, MT – Montana residents should prepare for severe thunderstorms on Thursday, with the potential for large hail and damaging winds. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert for late Thursday afternoon, as storms develop along a cold front and dryline.
According to NOAA, hail up to 2.5 inches in diameter and winds reaching 80 mph are primary risks. Severe weather could affect central and eastern Montana, moving southeastward into the evening. Residents are advised to stay updated with local weather alerts and take necessary precautions for safety.
Severe thunderstorm development is expected to begin by late Thursday afternoon, particularly over central and eastern Montana, and gradually move southeastward. This storm system is likely to bring scattered supercells initially, which could evolve into clusters as the evening progresses.
Montana residents should stay informed and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. It’s crucial to have a plan in place and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to protect both people and property. Stay tuned to local weather updates and alerts for the most current information on the storm’s progression and potential impacts.
Looking ahead, the extended forecast suggests a mix of sunny and partly cloudy days through the weekend, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s. However, isolated thunderstorms could reappear early next week, so continued vigilance is advised.