Billings, Montana – Violent mountain wave winds capable of overturning semitrucks could hammer highways across south-central Montana Thursday, with gusts nearing 90 mph along the Interstate 90 corridor near Livingston.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, a High Wind Warning remains in effect until 9 p.m. MDT Thursday across a large portion of central and south-central Montana, including the Livingston area, Beartooth Foothills, Paradise Valley, Big Timber region, and parts of Yellowstone and Carbon counties. Wind gusts between 70 and 90 mph are expected near Livingston and the foothills, while surrounding plains including Billings, Miles City, and Roundup could see gusts of 50 to 70 mph.
Transportation officials warn the most dangerous crosswinds are likely along Interstate 90 between Livingston and Big Timber, where strong gap winds routinely create hazardous conditions for tractor trailers and RVs. Additional travel concerns extend along Highway 191 through Judith Gap and Highway 12 between Harlowton and Lavina, where powerful gusts could push vehicles across lanes.
The wind event also raises the risk of downed trees, damaged power lines, and scattered outages across exposed foothill communities such as Fishtail, Nye, and Absarokee.
Emergency managers are also warning residents to avoid activities that could spark fires. With dry grasses and powerful winds, any ignition could spread rapidly across rangeland.
Residents should secure outdoor objects and prepare for potential power interruptions as winds peak during the late morning through afternoon hours Thursday. Conditions are expected to gradually improve after 9 p.m., though strong breezes may linger overnight.
