Billings, Montana – Drivers across south-central Montana may encounter dangerous crosswinds within hours as powerful winds build late Monday and intensify through Tuesday, especially along the foothills west of Billings.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, wind speeds will increase late Monday with the strongest conditions expected Tuesday morning through early afternoon. Forecasters say gusts of 55 to 70 mph are possible from Livingston to Big Timber and near Harlowton, while communities including Billings, Columbus, and Roundup could see gusts between 45 and 60 mph.
The corridor along Interstate 90 between Livingston and Big Timber is particularly vulnerable to powerful crosswinds. High-profile vehicles such as semis, RVs, and box trucks could struggle to maintain control, and officials warn travel may become hazardous during the strongest gusts.
Communities across the western foothills carry some of the highest probabilities for extreme wind. Forecast data shows Livingston with roughly a 60% chance of gusts exceeding 60 mph, while Harlowton and Big Timber also show elevated probabilities for damaging winds.
Recent snowfall across the region is expected to limit widespread blowing snow because the snowpack remains wet and heavy. However, brief drifting in exposed mountain areas remains possible.
The strongest winds should gradually ease later Tuesday afternoon, though breezy conditions may linger across south-central Montana into the evening. Additional wind advisories could be issued if gusts strengthen beyond current projections.
