A HIGH WIND WARNING remains in effect for the Rocky Mountain Front.
A HIGH WIND WATCH has been issued for most of central and northern Montana into Wednesday.
A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for dangerous fire weather conditions for east-central Montana for Tuesday.
An Areal Flood Advisory has been issued for Beaver Creek in northeast Montana do to snowmelt and rising water.
A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY is in effect for the Rocky Mountain Front and Marias Pass into Tuesday.
Wow, there's a lot going on across the state. The main culprit is the wind which shut down Highway 87 north of Great Falls for much of Monday. That road has since been opened but powerful winds have reduced visibility because of blowing dust. The wind will continue to scream across much of the state through Tuesday and Wednesday. This will be a rather uncomfortable stretch of weather to be outside in the unrelenting wind. Tuesday's wind will be strong and persistent across the state. Expect reduced visibility at times with areas of blowing dust and dirt. Some snow will be blown around along the Rocky Mountain Front. In east-central Montana, dangerous fire weather conditions are likely with strong wind, low humidity and dry fine fuels. Along the Rocky Mountain Front and through Marias Pass there will be snow and wind. Most of the mountain passes will have snow tonight through Tuesday morning. Highs on Wednesday will be in the 40s to around 50, with 30s in the mountains. Wednesday another front will move through the state with scattered snow showers, squalls, and mixed rain/snow showers. The wind will once again be relentless causing problems on the roads. Snow accumulation over the mountain passes could make for difficult travel. Some heavier showers will also affect the lower elevations at times. Highs will mainly be in the 40s. High pressure will move in by Thursday morning with clearing skies and lighter wind. This high will warm temperatures up into the 50s and 60s by Friday making that day the warmest yet in 2020. But as the weather can do here in Montana in March, big changes will arrive this weekend. A cold front will work through the state on Saturday with falling temperatures and eventually falling snow. Be prepared for slippery travel Saturday night into Sunday. Not only will snow accumulate in the mountains, but the lower elevations could see several inches.
Have a great day and be safe.
Curtis Grevenitz
