Central Montana Storms Primed for 80 MPH Wind Gusts — SevereWX

Central Montana Storms Primed for 80 MPH Wind Gusts

Thunderstorm coverage is ramping up across central Montana this afternoon, with a growing risk of severe wind gusts as storms move into hotter, more unstable air.

SPC's Mesoscale Discussion 1730 highlights early convective attempts in southwest to central MT giving way to more sustained activity. Lingering inhibition is eroding with temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 90s, fueling better storm development away from terrain. GOES satellite imagery shows increasing cumulus fields in southwest MT and Idaho, signaling broader thunderstorm outbreaks in the next 2-3 hours.

As these storms spread eastward, they could organize into loosely clustered modes thanks to 30-35 knot mid-level flow. The most probable threats include wind gusts of 65-80 mph and hail up to 1.25 inches. Areas untouched by prior outflows stand to see the strongest potential, especially in the deeply mixed boundary layer.

Watch issuance odds sit at 60%, likely if convective trends confirm widespread development. The discussion runs until around 4:45 PM Moderate.

Affected area: Central Montana, per SPC polygon from roughly Lewistown to Great Falls vicinity.

Keep an eye on radar trends—winds this strong can down trees, damage power lines, and create hazardous driving. SPC will monitor closely.

Stay prepared: Secure outdoor items, avoid travel under storms, and have multiple alert sources ready. Check SPC and local NWS for updates.