Dangerous Heat Builds and Expands; Critical Fire Weather for the Southwest; Severe Thunderstorms for Plains and Midwest

Dangerous to record breaking heat will build across the center of the nation and slowly build eastward this week. Wildfire conditions remain critical for the Southwest and portions of the Great Basin through Monday. For the northern Plains and upper Midwest, severe thunderstorms with the potential for large to very large hail and severe winds are the primary hazards. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Wed, Jul 1, 2026 at 8:44:31 pm MDT

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National Weather Service Great Falls, MT

Flash Flood Watch

Flood Advisory

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Special Weather Statement

Thunderstorms on Wednesday (July 1)

Fourth of July Outlook

Thunderstorms are expected to roll through the region between 1 PM and 8 PM tomorrow (July 1), moving from southwest to northeast. Locations in light green (generally south and east of Missoula) could see lightning and brief, heavy downpours. If you are in the darker green area on the map (including Butte, Helena, and Great Falls), be prepared for isolated wind gusts over 50 mph and the potential for hail. Keep an eye on the sky tomorrow afternoon, have a way to receive warnings, and remember: when thunder roars, head indoors!

Expect warm temperatures across Montana this holiday weekend, with highs climbing steadily from the 70s on Friday into the mid-80s and 90s by Sunday. While most of the weekend looks great for outdoor celebrations, there are daily chances for scattered thunderstorms, primarily localized East of the Continental Divide. Though the overall probability of severe weather remains low, any developing storm could bring localized hazards. Safety Impacts: Fireworks & Wind: Even non-severe thunderstorms can produce gusty, erratic winds. Be highly mindful of sudden wind shifts if you are lighting fireworks. Lightning: Outdoor gatherings are highly vulnerable to lightning strikes. Take shelter inside a sturdy building or hard-topped vehicle at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Heat: With temperatures pushing into the 90s by Sunday, remember to drink water before you feel thirsty and reapply SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours.