Stanford, MT – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Great Falls has issued a High Wind Warning for Judith Basin County and the Judith Gap area through 5 a.m. Tuesday, as strong west winds continue to batter the region. Residents are urged to take precautions against damaging gusts and hazardous travel conditions overnight.
The Weather Alert: Winds Up to 60 MPH Expected
According to the National Weather Service, winds are expected to remain strong through early Tuesday morning, with sustained speeds between 25 and 35 mph and gusts reaching up to 60 mph. Meteorologists warn that these winds could move loose debris, damage outdoor property, and cause isolated power outages due to downed tree branches or power lines.
“These winds are strong enough to cause localized damage and create dangerous travel conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles,” the NWS advisory stated.
The warning covers several key routes, including U.S. Highway 87, Highway 191, and the Judith Gap corridor, where crosswinds could make driving particularly treacherous.
Potential Hazards and Safety Concerns
Residents across Judith Basin County are being advised to secure outdoor items such as trash bins, patio furniture, and holiday decorations that may be blown away or damaged by gusty winds. The NWS also cautions that travel conditions may deteriorate quickly, especially during overnight hours when visibility is reduced.
Power companies have also alerted residents to the potential for temporary outages, advising them to keep mobile devices charged and avoid downed power lines if encountered.
“Even small items can become projectiles in winds like these,” one local emergency coordinator said. “We’re urging everyone to bring in loose materials and check on neighbors, especially older residents.”
Impact on Travel and Local Roads
The strongest winds are expected to impact elevated and open areas of central Montana, particularly Judith Gap, where crosswinds often create hazardous driving conditions for semi-trucks and large vehicles.
Authorities are urging drivers of trailers, RVs, and high-profile vehicles to use caution and avoid unnecessary travel until winds subside.
The Montana Department of Transportation recommends slowing down when crossing bridges or exposed roadways and maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel to prevent lane drift during sudden gusts.
Forecast and Duration of the Wind Event
Meteorologists expect winds to gradually decrease by early Tuesday morning as the pressure system moves east. However, lingering breezes may continue through the morning commute before calmer conditions return later in the day.
Temperatures are forecast to remain in the upper 30s to low 40s overnight, with partly cloudy skies accompanying the windy conditions.
Forecasters note that while this event is typical for fall in Montana, the combination of strong gusts and dry ground could lead to localized blowing dust and reduced visibility in open plains areas.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness
The NWS Great Falls office will continue to monitor conditions overnight and issue updates if necessary. Residents are encouraged to follow local alerts, keep emergency kits stocked, and report any significant wind damage to local authorities.
For the latest weather updates, residents can visit the National Weather Service Great Falls website or tune in to local radio and news broadcasts.
Conclusion
With gusts up to 60 mph expected to persist into early Tuesday, residents of Judith Basin County and the Judith Gap area should remain cautious, secure outdoor belongings, and avoid unnecessary travel until the High Wind Warning expires. The system is expected to move east by sunrise, bringing a gradual return to calmer conditions across central Montana.
What are your thoughts on this weather alert? Have strong winds impacted your area tonight? Share your experiences in the comments below.
