A HIGH WIND WATCH has been issued for the Rocky Mountain Front for Friday into the weekend.
It's been a while since Montana warmed into the 60s, as many towns last achieved that number in the beginning of November. Record warmth is possible heading into the first weekend of February with some cities warming into the low to mid 60s. But usually at this time of year when a big warm up occurs, cold and snow follow. The last few days of January will be fair and mild. Wednesday will be mostly sunny with highs in the 40s. There will be a moderate wind up to 30mph across the plains. After dark on Wednesday, a burst of snow will push through the state. The mountains could pick up a couple inches and the lower elevations may see a coating. This quick hitting nocturnal storm will be history by Thursday morning. Thursday will be another pleasant day with highs in the 40s under mostly sunny skies. Friday will be mostly cloudy with increasing wind and a few rain showers. Temperatures will warm through the 40s to around 50 for highs. Saturday is February 1st and record highs in the 50s and 60s are possible. With the warmth comes wind, really powerful wind. The Rocky Mountain Front and northcentral Montana is in line for a high wind event with gusts topping 60mph in some areas. Those winds of change will bring in a strong cold front for Super Bowl-Groundhog Day Sunday. While the morning may start off mild, cold and snow will spread across the state by Sunday afternoon. After the warm, falling snow could created icy conditions on the roads. Please use caution heading to and from Super Bowl parties. Areas of snow will continue into Monday morning with a few inches possible in the lower elevations. Winter is coming back.
Have a great day.
Curtis Grevenitz
