Glasgow, Montana – Eastern Montana residents should prepare for changing conditions as a significant round of showers and thunderstorms moves into the region beginning Friday afternoon and lingering through the weekend. The National Weather Service warns of heavy downpours, gusty winds, and localized flooding that could affect travel along the US-2 corridor and nearby communities.
This alert is particularly relevant for people in and around Glasgow, Fort Peck, and Nashua, where brief but intense storms may reduce visibility and create slick roads. Event planners, travelers, and anyone with outdoor activities should monitor conditions and be ready to alter plans.
The Expected Timeline and Immediate Risks
Forecasters expect precipitation to begin after noon on Friday, with the highest chance of heavier rainfall between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Winds will turn northwest and could gust to 10 to 15 mph, making travel difficult for high-profile vehicles. Areas near the Missouri River and low-lying roadways may experience localized ponding.
“Showers and thunderstorms are likely to begin after noon Friday, with the chance of heavier downpours between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.,” said the National Weather Service in its advisory. “Gusty northwest winds and localized ponding could reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions.”
Saturday Outlook: A Wetter Day with Scattered Strong Storms
Saturday is expected to be wetter overall. Showers may become more widespread by mid-morning, with the potential for more intense thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. Rainfall amounts will vary, but the combination of heavy rain and gusty winds raises the risk of slick roads and low visibility into Saturday evening.
- When: Showers and storms beginning Friday after noon; heavier storms 3–8 p.m. Friday; continued activity into Saturday.
- Where: Glasgow, the US-2 corridor, Fort Peck, Nashua and eastern Montana communities.
- Hazards: Heavy downpours, gusty northwest winds of 10–15 mph, localized ponding, reduced visibility, and slick roads.
Travel Impacts and Preparedness Tips
Travelers on US-2 and local roads should be ready for rapidly changing conditions. The combination of rain and wind can create sudden hazards, especially for trucks and vehicles towing trailers.
- Keep mobile phones charged and weather apps enabled for real-time alerts.
- Secure loose outdoor items and delay nonessential travel during heavy downpours.
- Slow down and allow extra stopping distance on wet roads; watch for standing water.
- If visibility drops, pull off the road safely and wait for conditions to improve.
Sunday Calm — But Cooler Weather Returns Monday
Conditions are forecast to calm on Sunday, with partly sunny skies and highs near 80°F. However, cooler air and additional showers are expected to return by Monday, so outdoor plans late in the weekend should remain flexible.
What Residents Should Watch For
Key signs to monitor include sudden drops in visibility, water pooling on low-lying roads, and rapidly increasing wind gusts. Local emergency services and the National Weather Service will provide updates as storms evolve.
- Monitor: Local alerts and road conditions.
- Prepare: Charge devices, secure outdoor items, and plan alternate travel times.
- Respond: Avoid flooded roads and reduce speed in heavy rain.
Implications for the Weekend
Outdoor events and travel plans across eastern Montana should anticipate interruptions. While some locations will see only light showers, others can experience brief, intense storms that temporarily halt activities. Staying informed and flexible will minimize risk and delays.
Stay safe: keep an eye on evolving forecasts, watch for any local warnings, and avoid travel during the worst of the storms if possible.
What do you think about this weather alert? Are you planning to travel on US-2 this weekend? Share your plans and precautions in the comments below.
