Great Falls, MT – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 11 p.m. Monday for large parts of central and eastern Montana, as fast-moving storm systems threaten to bring destructive winds up to 75 mph, hail as large as 1.5 inches, and possibly isolated tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Regions Under Threat
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has placed counties including Cascade, Yellowstone, Fergus, and Valley under alert, with storms racing east-northeast across the state. Urban centers like Great Falls and Billings are included in the watch zone.
“Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce tornadoes,” the NWS cautioned, urging mobile home residents and those in open areas to seek sturdy shelter at the first sign of danger.
Wind and Hail Hazards
The primary concern remains straight-line winds topping 60 to 75 mph, capable of:
- Snapping tree limbs
- Downing power lines
- Causing scattered outages
- Creating dangerous travel conditions along I-15, U.S. 87, and other highways
Additionally, hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter could damage vehicles, shatter windows, and destroy unprotected crops, especially in rural farming communities.
Precautionary Measures Recommended
Officials are asking residents to:
- Secure outdoor furniture and equipment
- Avoid traveling during storm activity
- Charge phones and devices
- Keep flashlights and backup batteries handy
- Use NOAA Weather Radio or emergency alert apps for real-time updates
“Have a plan in place. These storms can form quickly and conditions may deteriorate with little warning,” warned a local emergency management spokesperson.
Storms May Continue Overnight
While the initial Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 11 p.m., forecasters warn that storm clusters may continue into the night, and additional watches or warnings could be issued as the system moves eastward.
Residents across Montana’s eastern plains should remain vigilant through the evening and overnight hours, especially in areas with limited cell service or power infrastructure.
Are you prepared for Montana’s severe weather tonight? Share your storm safety tips or concerns in the comments.
