High Wind Warning Issued for Southwestern Montana Mountains and Valleys

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Great Falls, MT, has issued a High Wind Warning for several regions in Southwestern Montana. This alert indicates at least an 80% chance of 40 mph sustained winds or 58 mph wind gusts occurring during the warning period.

Affected Areas

The warning covers a broad area of Southwestern Montana, including:

• Big Belt, Bridger, and Castle Mountains
• Elkhorn and Boulder Mountains
• Canyon Ferry Area
• Missouri Headwaters
• Madison River Valley
• Gallatin Valley
• Northwest Beaverhead County
• Beaverhead and Western Madison below 6000ft
• Ruby Mountains and Southern Beaverhead Mountains
• Gallatin and Madison County Mountains and Centennial Mountains

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around or damaged by the wind. Travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Drivers should be prepared for reduced visibility at times, particularly in the Interstate 90 corridor, due to blowing dust or snow.

Expected Conditions

• Wind Speed: Northwest winds of 30 to 40 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph.
• Visibility: Blowing dust may reduce visibility. Additionally, a few heavy snow showers or snow squalls are possible in the afternoon, which could further impact visibility and road conditions.
• Impacts: High winds may move loose debris, damage property, and cause power outages.

Timeline

The High Wind Warning is in effect from 12:00 PM MDT to 9:00 PM MDT on Saturday, March 14, 2026.