NWS Forecast Office Great Falls, MT

Temperatures warm above normal for the Memorial holiday weekend across Southwest, Central, and North Central Montana . Winds become strong and gusty on Sunday and Monday, especially in the north-south orientated valleys of Southwest Montana and along the Rocky Mountain Front. Area lakes, reservoirs, and long fetches of rivers will become rough and choppy, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Water temperatures remain significantly colder at between 45° to 55° and recreationist should take proper precautions.

While temperatures may be warming up this weekend, water will still be very cold. Without proper protection, cold water shock and hypothermia can occur quickly. In fact, cold water shock can be just as severe and dangerous from water temperatures of 50 - 60 degrees Fahrenheit as it is from water at 35 degrees Fahrenheit. If going out on the water, remember to always wear a life jacket, avoid alcohol, and dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. It is also a good idea to carry an emergency position indicating radio beacon or personal locator beacon. For more information, visit weather.gov/safety/coldwater and fwp.mt.gov/activities/boating

Here's a reminder that we have TWO virtual spotter training opportunities this week. Anyone is welcome to attend any session. The session on Wednesday will focus on severe weather in the intermountain portions of the state while the session on Thursday will focus on severe weather along the Hi-Line. Make sure to register to receive more information and a link to the virtual class. Direct web link to sign up: Direct Sign Up Link