Great Falls, MT – The National Weather Service in Great Falls has issued a High Wind Watch for north-central Montana, in effect from Wednesday evening through Thursday afternoon, with gusts up to 65 mph possible across the region.
The watch includes Glacier, Toole, Liberty, Pondera, Hill, and Blaine Counties, affecting communities such as Cut Bank, Shelby, Havre, Chester, Chinook, and Rocky Boy.
Forecasters expect southwest winds of 25 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching 60 to 65 mph, strongest along the Montana Hi-Line and the Bears Paw Mountains. Conditions will deteriorate Wednesday night and persist through early Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, these powerful winds could damage property, down trees, and cause localized power outages. Travel may become hazardous, particularly for high-profile vehicles along U.S. Highway 2 and Interstate 15.
Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor items, such as decorations or farm equipment, and stay updated on forecast changes as the system develops. Officials advise monitoring local alerts and preparing for possible temporary power interruptions.
Winds are expected to gradually decrease late Thursday as the system exits into the Dakotas.
