Montana Storms Charge Up Severe Hail Cores in Southwest-Central Zones — SevereWX

Storms are sparking across portions of southwestern into central Montana, where forecasters see a growing shot at severe weather through late afternoon.

The Storm Prediction Center's latest Mesoscale Discussion notes convective initiation underway in the northern Rockies. Radar shows storm cores already dropping sub-severe hail, with environments primed for escalation. Strong surface heating is fueling MLCAPE over 1000 J/kg under steep mid-level lapse rates, paired with 30-40 kt shear for some transient supercell structures.

Primary threats:

• Hail: 1.00-1.75 inches (quarter to golf ball size)
• Winds: Isolated 55-70 mph gusts from evaporative cooling

A 40% chance of a severe thunderstorm watch exists within the next couple hours. Peak impacts look isolated but potent, especially with eroding inhibition and elongated hodographs.

This builds on yesterday's scattered Montana activity, shifting focus westward as clusters organize. Check SPC's MD graphic for the exact polygon covering from near Bozeman southwestward.

Stay prepared: Monitor local radar and NWS updates. Have a NOAA radio handy, secure outdoor items, and seek sturdy shelter if storms approach. Severe weather can change fast—safety first.