MISSOULA — There are some big changes in store for our Labor Day Weekend forecast, so let’s dive right into it.
SATURDAY:
Saturday we will see close to record highs in Western Montana.
Highs top out in the mid to upper 90s!
Dry air will also still be around. Relative humidity values will be anywhere between 10-20% throughout Saturday afternoon.
We also add in some very breezy conditions.
Saturday afternoon wind gusts look to peak around 30 MPH.
The dry air, wind, and warm temperatures all add up to create critical fire danger in our area.
Most of Montana is under a Red Flag Warning Saturday afternoon and evening.
SUNDAY:
Sunday highs will cool slightly.
We will be in the mid to upper 80s.
There will be a slight breeze, but other than that Sunday looks to be a pleasant afternoon.
MONDAY/ LABOR DAY:
If you are thinking about camping out this weekend, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about the weather.
Besides making sure you camp fire is under control, it will be a warm and pleasant holiday weekend.
If you were thinking about staying an extra day- Monday night into Tuesday, that is where things are going to get little cold, rainy, and windy again.
Monday afternoon a cold front moves from north to south across the Treasure State.
This will bring in MUCH colder air (a 20 degree drop from Sunday’s highs), windy conditions (up to 50 MPH gusts on Flathead Lake), and moisture!
First a High Wind Watch is in place for Monday afternoon for the Flathead Valley/ Lake, Mission Valley, and Polson. Gusts will be reaching 30-35 MPH and up to 50 MPH gusts are possible.
Flathead Lake is at full pool, and with summer docks and boats still cruising on the lake, there is a potential for damage to both Monday afternoon. Winds will be switching during this cold front passing and afternoon winds will be coming out of the northeast.
Moisture and colder air will mix in behind the front as well, and snow levels will drop to 6,000 ft along the Divide Monday night into Tuesday morning.
There is the potential for 2-4” at 6,000 ft and closer to 4-5” in the very upper elevations.
A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for these areas Monday afternoon and evening.
As this system continues to develop, we will keep a close eye on it and update you with the latest information!
