Missoula, Montana – Damaging winds are expected to sweep across northwest Montana Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning, threatening widespread power outages, downed trees, and dangerous conditions on area lakes and highways.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, a rare July cold front will push south and west from Canada, bringing north to east winds of 20 to 35 mph and gusts up to 55 mph to the Kootenai/Cabinet Region, West Glacier, Flathead, and Mission Valleys. The high wind watch goes into effect Monday afternoon for the Glacier region and from Monday evening in the Flathead and Mission Valleys, with both lasting until late Tuesday morning.
Communities including Libby, Eureka, Whitefish, Kalispell, and Polson could see downed power lines, toppled trees, and challenging travel, especially for high-profile vehicles on routes such as U.S. Highway 2, Montana Highway 35, and around Glacier National Park. Boaters are urged to avoid Lake Koocanusa, Flathead Lake, Lake McDonald, and other waterways Monday night, as rapidly shifting winds and possible thunderstorms may create hazardous conditions.
Residents camping or recreating outdoors should avoid pitching tents or campers beneath trees. Fasten or move loose objects indoors before winds increase. With the threat of thunderstorms, be prepared for lightning, small hail, and heavy rain—especially in the higher terrain and channeled valleys.
This level of wind is unusual for July in Montana. The strongest gusts are expected in the western foothills and canyon areas of the Lewis, Whitefish, Swan, Purcell, Cabinet, and Salish ranges. Stay alert for updates as more advisories may follow if the storm intensifies.
