Heat Persists in the South Central U.S. and California; Heavy Rain in the Ohio Valley

Sweltering heat remains across the South-Central Plains and Lower/Middle Mississippi Valley, as well as in the Southwest and California this week with limited nighttime relief. Heavy rainfall will lead to localized areas of flash flooding in parts of the Ohio Valley/Central Appalachians. Dry and breezy conditions will enhance fire weather concerns across the northern Rockies and High Plains. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Wed, Sep 9, 2026 at 11:22:38 pm MDT

Watches, Warnings & Advisories

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National Weather Service Great Falls, MT

Red Flag Warning

Gusty Winds Expected Thursday

Valley Rain/Mountain Snow Friday-Sunday

Impacts to Flathead Lake and Southwest Montana Strong, gusty winds will develop throughout the day on Thursday, leading to potentially hazardous boating conditions on area lakes and elevated fire weather concerns. Flathead Lake: Winds from the West and Southwest will be sustained at 5-15 mph, with gusts from 15 to 25 mph. Boaters should prepare for choppy water and hazardous conditions for the opening of Fall Mack Days. Southwest Montana: Winds will increase into the afternoon out of the South and Southwest. Sustained speeds of 10-25 mph are expected, with peak gusts reaching 20-40+ mph. This, along with warm and dry air, will lead to elevated fire weather conditions.

A significant weather shift is arriving in Western Montana and North-Central Idaho Friday into this weekend, September 11-13, bringing widespread rain to the valleys and snow to the high terrain. Snow accumulations are possible above 6,000 feet, particularly on Sunday. Anyone heading into the backcountry should prepare for a legitimate hypothermia risk due to the sudden onset of cold, wet, and raw conditions. High temperatures will take a hit, dropping 10 to 20 degrees below normal by Saturday and Sunday. Also, expect morning fog and low clouds to start your days.

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Heat Persists in the South Central U.S. and California; Heavy Rain in the Ohio Valley

NWS Forecast Office Missoula, MT