Heat Persists in the South Central U.S. and Southwest; Heavy rains in the Desert Southwest and Central Plains

Sweltering heat remains across the South-Central Plains, Lower/Middle Mississippi Valley, and the Southwest this week with limited nighttime relief. Thunderstorms will bring heavy rainfall leading to localized flash flooding in portions of the Desert Southwest and central Plains. Isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are possible across portions of the central Plains into the Northeast. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Wed, Sep 9, 2026 at 3:14:30 am MDT

Watches, Warnings & Advisories

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National Weather Service Great Falls, MT

Fire Weather Watch

Gusty Winds Expected Thursday

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.