Wind Advisory Issued for Flathead/Mission Valleys, Kootenai/Cabinet Region

A Wind Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Missoula MT for the Flathead/Mission Valleys and the Kootenai/Cabinet Region. The advisory is effective from 2 PM MDT on Friday, September 24, until midnight MDT on Friday, September 24. This advisory is considered urgent and is expected to impact the community.

Southwest winds are expected to reach speeds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 40 mph. The NWS indicates a 70 to 90 percent chance of gusts over 40 mph from Happy's Inn to Hot Springs between 4 PM and 6 PM MDT. During the same timeframe, there is a 60 percent chance of gusts over 40 mph west of Kalispell, near Kila, and a 40 percent chance along the west side of the Mission Valley and the western shore of Flathead Lake. Gusts over 40 mph have a 90 percent chance of occurring above 6,000 feet in the mountains.

Residents should prepare for potential impacts, including unsecured objects being blown around, tree limbs being downed, and possible power outages. The NWS advises that winds of this strength can make driving difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles. Extra caution is urged for all drivers during this period.