National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Extreme Heat Across the Southern U.S.; Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain in the Plains and Mississippi Valley

A heat wave over the Southwest will intensify late week, peaking and expanding into the Intermountain West and northern High Plains this weekend. Severe thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected over portions of the Plains and Mississippi Valley tonight, which will shift to parts of the Upper Midwest and mid-Mississippi Valley Friday. Monsoonal showers and flooding persist in the Desert Southwest. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Thu, Jul 30, 2026 at 7:36:23 pm MDT

Dry conditions are expected to persist across the Northern Rockies for the foreseeable future. With deep southwesterly flow transporting smoke from active fires in Washington and Oregon, air quality will likely remain poor, and it may get worse before it gets better. We remain locked into a synoptic setup featuring elevated fire weather conditions. Specifically hot, dry, and breezy weather. This pattern continues to stream smoke into the region, degrading air quality and reducing visibility. - Stay cool and limit outdoor exposure when smoke is thickest. - Check in on vulnerable neighbors, friends, and family, especially those without air conditioning or with respiratory ailments. - Always check the back seat for pets or children.
Breezy conditions are expected across Western Montana and North-Central Idaho this Saturday and Sunday, August 1st and 2nd. Sustained westerly winds of 10 to 25 mph are forecast, with afternoon gusts reaching 25 to 45 mph. These winds will create choppy, hazardous conditions on area lakes and waterways. Those floating local rivers, such as the Clark Fork, may encounter strong headwinds pushing upriver. At home, residents should secure lightweight yard decor and patio furniture. Additionally, these dry, windy conditions will further elevate the regional fire danger. Please exercise extreme caution to prevent sparking any new wildfires.

 

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