Missoula, Montana – Thunderstorms packing heavy rainfall are prompting a Flash Flood Watch across western Montana and central Idaho this afternoon, with threats to roads, burn scars, and rural communities running through 9 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Missoula, the alert covers Missoula, Butte, Philipsburg, Salmon, Grangeville, and dozens of smaller communities from 2 p.m. MDT in Lemhi County, Idaho, expanding to include much of western Montana by 3 p.m. Forecasters warn that excessive runoff could quickly inundate creeks, streams, and flood-prone lowlands—especially in areas recently impacted by wildfires, such as the Moose Fire, Johnson Fire, and Daly Fire burn scars.
Drivers on Highway 93 from Salmon to Ellis and along the Salmon River Road near North Fork and Shoup should be alert for water-covered pavement, debris flows, and sudden closures. In Montana, Hot Springs, Thompson Falls, Philipsburg, Drummond, and Missoula could see flooded intersections and rural road washouts. The threat extends to key stretches such as Frontage Road from Bearmouth to Drummond, as well as neighborhoods near Eds Gulch and New Chicago.
Residents are urged to avoid low-lying roads, secure outdoor property, and keep cell phones charged in case of power outages. Stay tuned to local alerts and be ready to move to higher ground if warnings are issued.
The Flood Watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. MDT, with additional advisories possible if rainfall persists.
