Forecasters Warn Western Montana to Prepare for Possible High Wind Event

Montana has experienced some unusual weather patterns this winter. 

From stretches of record warmth to conditions we don’t normally see this time of year, the weather has been on many Montanans’ minds.  

Why Forecasters Are Watching This Wind Event Closely

Now, forecasters with the National Weather Service are warning residents in western Montana about the potential for a high wind event developing Sunday into Monday. According to the NWS, we could see gusts of 30-50 mph winds, with higher gusts in the mountains. Winds look to diminish by Tuesday, according to the forecast.

While the exact impacts are still being monitored, meteorologists say now is the time to start preparing in case conditions worsen.  

How Western Montana Residents Can Prepare Now

For many Montanans, the mention of a high wind event brings back memories of a powerful storm a few years ago that caused widespread damage. Trees were knocked down, power lines were snapped, and many areas lost electricity as winds reached hurricane-force levels in some spots. 

READ MORE: Hurricane Force Winds, Thunderstorms Slam West Central Montana

With that kind of history, officials say it’s smart to take a few simple steps ahead of time.  

How to Prepare for High Winds:  

• Before the storm arrives, take a few minutes to make sure your property is ready:  
• Secure or bring inside lawn furniture, garbage cans, and loose outdoor items  
• Clear debris from your yard  
• Remove cracked or damaged tree limbs that could break during strong winds  
• Charge power banks and mobile devices
• Have flashlights and fresh batteries ready in case of a power outage  
• If strong winds cause damage, officials are reminding residents to treat every downed power line as dangerous. 

READ MORE: One Year Later: Missoula’s Epic Windstorm Still Leaves Its Mark

Stay away from downed power lines. If you see a power line on the ground:

• Do not touch it
• Do not approach it
• Assume the line is live and dangerous
• Call 911 immediately to report it  

At this point, forecasters say the situation is still developing. Hopefully, western Montana will avoid the kind of storm that caused major problems in the past.  

But taking a little time to prepare this weekend could make a big difference if strong winds do arrive.  

For now, the best advice is simple: stay aware, stay prepared, and stay safe.