Montana is entering a prolonged stormy and cool stretch that could linger into Memorial Day weekend. A series of storms will move through the state producing widespread rain, thunder and even some snow. With significant precipitation likely, a FLOOD WATCH has been issued for parts of southcentral Montana. A FLOOD WARNING is in effect for the Clark Fork through Missoula. The Clark Fork is already running at flood stage and the water will likely rise with heavy rain coming in. Thursday will be mostly cloudy with showers and thunderstorms. High temperatures will range from the 40s along the Rocky Mountain Front, to the 50s and 60s elsewhere. Thunderstorms in eastern Montana could be nasty with powerful wind and large hail. Friday is when widespread rain will develop across most of the state. Highs will be chilly in the 40s and 50s. Friday night, snow levels will drop as temperatures cool off into the 30s. Saturday morning will likely have a mix of rain and snow in the lower elevations. The mountains will have heavy, wet snow accumulate several inches. If you travel over the mountain passes, be prepared for difficult driving with slushy roads and reduced visibility. Highs on Saturday will be in the 40s in the lower elevations, but 20s and 30s in the mountains. Sunday’s weather will be slightly better as showers will be light and more scattered. Skies will be mostly cloudy. Highs will still be chilly in the 40s and 50s. Another big May storm will bring more rain and snow to the state for the middle of next week.
Curtis Grevenitz
