Malta, Montana – A High Wind Warning is in effect from 11 p.m. tonight through 8 a.m. Friday for Phillips County, with west winds of 35 to 45 mph and gusts up to 70 mph expected along US-191.
According to the National Weather Service in Glasgow, winds across northeast Montana will increase rapidly after sunset, with the strongest gusts developing late tonight into early Friday morning.
Sustained west winds between 35 and 45 mph are forecast, with many locations potentially seeing gusts as high as 70 mph. The strongest crosswinds are expected along north-south highways, particularly US-191, where travel could become difficult at times.
Communities including Malta, Whitewater and areas west of Glasgow may experience brief periods of hazardous driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles such as semitrailers, RVs and buses.
Forecasters warn that strong crosswinds could make lane control challenging on exposed stretches of roadway. Blowing debris is also possible, and unsecured outdoor objects may be displaced.
The warning remains in effect until 8 a.m. Friday, when winds are expected to gradually diminish through the morning hours.
Drivers planning overnight or early morning travel should use caution and consider delaying trips if operating lightweight or high-profile vehicles. Those traveling along US-191 and other north-south corridors in Phillips County should remain alert for sudden gusts.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items and monitor updates from the National Weather Service Glasgow office for the latest information.
