A RED FLAG WARNING will go into effect at 11 am and will continue through Saturday night for most of the state.
A HIGH WIND WATCH will go into effect Saturday morning and continue through tomorrow night for portions of central, north-central, southwest, and west-central Montana.
Today started cold, but cold temperatures will give away to highs topping out in the mid to upper 70s. A southwesterly flow will allow smoke and haze from wildfires burning regional and locally to move back into the state.
Saturday will be the start of a busy weather weekend. A slow-moving disturbance will begin working its way into northwest Montana, bringing rain and cooler temperatures. Ahead of the disturbance will be windy and warm. The combination of strong wind, warm temperatures, and low humidity will heighten the fire concern for the state.
By Sunday, expect more cloud cover, rain in the lower elevations, and the high temperatures cooling nearly 30 degrees.
Rain will continue into Monday in the lower elevations, and a few inches of snow is expected to fall in the mountains. The highs will remain in the 50s and 60s.
Tuesday, the sun will return, and the temperatures will slowly begin to regain their strength.
Wednesday is the first day of fall, and the state will have sunny skies and fall temperatures.
Have a great day.
A.R. 😊
