Pacific Pattern Means Pleasant Fall Weather

It's hard to imagine just 2 days ago temperatures were well below zero for much of Montana. Since then, temperatures have warmed some 40-70 degrees across the state. Mild, Pacific air will continue to move in from the west for the next several days. While it won't be t-shirt and shorts weather, temperatures will continue to remain mild for this time of year. Average highs should be in the mid 40s, with average lows in the 20s. After a cold end to September, a cold October, and a snowy and cold start to November, Montana will get a quiet break over the next several days. Thursday will be mostly sunny with highs in the 40s to around 50. Friday will start out partly cloudy but clouds and wind will increase through the afternoon and evening as a weak system moves toward the state. Highs will be above average, generally in the low to mid 50s. Friday night there will be a mix of rain and snow showers, the mountains could see a few inches of accumulation. Saturday morning will have a few lingering clouds and snow showers that will gradually clear by the afternoon. There will be a gusty wind at times up to 20-30mph. Highs again will be slightly above average in the 40s and 50s for most areas. Sunday will have more clouds than sun, there will be a strong wind across the prairies, and a few isolated showers will move over the lower elevations. The Rocky Mountain Front could have wind gusts up over 60mph on Sunday making for uncomfortable conditions out there. The start of next week will be cloudy with a few showers on Monday. A stronger, colder storm is likely to move in around Tuesday and Wednesday with a better chance of accumulating snow. Enjoy the quiet and calm while we have it.
Have a great day.
Curtis Grevenitz