High pressure will stay camped out across the Northern Rockies into next week. High-pressure systems are usually associated with sunny skies and calm conditions. Today into the beginning of next week, the state will have an ample amount of sunshine, a slight breeze at times, and above-average temperatures for most of the state. The high temperatures will range between the 40s and 50s; the valleys in western Montana highs will struggle to reach the 40s. As high-pressure camps out and strengthen, inversions will keep cold air trapped beneath warm air, creating a pocket of stagnant air; periods of stagnant air can lead to a buildup of pollutants near the surface.
Looking ahead into next week, high-pressure system will start to break down, and an area of low pressure will move in. As low-pressure moves, the wind will pick up Monday and Tuesday. Tuesday strong winds will feed high temperatures close to the 60s. Tuesday night into Wednesday, a wintry mix will fall in the mountains and may spill into the lower elevations of north-central Montana.
Have a great weekend,
A.R.😊
