GREAT FALLS — A cold front produced an active end to the weekend across north central Montana, with strong thunderstorms, gusty winds, and elevated fire weather concerns. Quieter weather returns Monday before temperatures warm and thunderstorm chances gradually increase again later in the week.
SUNDAY
As a cold front pushes through this evening, gusty west winds will develop behind it, combining with dry air to create elevated fire weather conditions. A mix of wet and dry thunderstorms could also lead to new fire starts.
MONDAY
The weekend storm system exits the region, leaving behind a quieter and cooler day. Great Falls, Helena, and much of north central Montana can expect mostly sunny skies and seasonable temperatures. Most areas remain dry, with any isolated thunderstorms confined well south and west near the Idaho border.
TUESDAY
High pressure strengthens across the Northern Rockies, bringing warmer temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Highs climb above seasonal averages across the Missouri River Valley, Great Falls, and Helena. Most locations remain dry, though a few isolated afternoon thunderstorms may begin developing over the higher terrain late in the day.
WEDNESDAY
Moisture gradually spreads farther north into central and north central Montana. Scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms become more common from Helena and Great Falls east toward Lewistown. Not everyone will see rainfall, but lightning and locally gusty winds will accompany stronger storms.
THURSDAY
Thunderstorm coverage expands across much of north central Montana as the ridge shifts eastward. Expect another round of scattered afternoon and evening storms, with warm temperatures continuing. Some storms may bring brief heavy rain while others produce mainly lightning and gusty winds.
FRIDAY
An approaching Pacific Northwest trough begins to influence the region. Temperatures remain warm but afternoon winds increase. Scattered thunderstorms remain possible, and areas that miss rainfall may see growing fire weather concerns due to the combination of wind and dry fuels.
SATURDAY
A slightly cooler and more unsettled pattern develops across north central Montana. Great Falls, Helena, Havre, and surrounding communities can expect seasonably warm temperatures, breezy afternoon winds, and periodic chances for showers and thunderstorms as the transition away from the ridge continues.
