Big Winds Down The Flathead And Mission Valleys Thursday

Wind Advisories have been issued for the valleys of western Montana for most of the day on Thursday. Gusty winds might break branches of leafed-out trees, with minor power outages possible. Flathead Lake will experience these winds, making conditions dangerous for small boats.

"Flathead Lake is the largest natural body of freshwater (by surface area) in the western U.S. and is also one of the cleanest lakes in the world." (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks)

• WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM TO 8 PM THURSDAY.
• WHAT...Southwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph expected.
• WHERE...Flathead/Mission Valleys and Flathead Lake.
• WHEN...From 11 AM to 8 PM Thursday.
• IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
• Flathead Lake: Strong winds and rough waves on area lakes will create hazardous conditions for small craft.
• PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
• Use extra caution. Secure outdoor objects.

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• WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 2 PM TO 8 PM THURSDAY.
• WHAT...West winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph expected.
• WHERE...Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys.
• WHEN...From 2 PM to 8 PM Thursday.
• IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

Further south into eastern Idaho, more forceful winds of up to 65 mph will arrive on Friday. Their own Watches and Advisories have been issued.

• HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING.
• WHAT...Southwest winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph possible.
• WHERE...Arco/Mud Lake Desert and Upper Snake River Plain.
• WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Friday evening.
• IMPACTS...Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
• Isolated damage to trees, powerlines, signs, and outbuildings is possible, along with isolated power outages.