Missoula and Bitterroot Bracing for Powerful Wind Gusts Tuesday

So far, June has been pretty kind to us here in Western Montana. We haven't seen anything too extreme, but that looks like it's about to change. 

Wind Advisory Alert for Western Montana

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for much of Western Montana beginning Tuesday afternoon. Forecasters are calling for sustained winds of 15 to 25 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 40 to 45 miles per hour in many locations. 

Anticipated Wind Strength: Missoula and Bitterroot Valleys

The strongest winds are expected in the Missoula and Bitterroot Valleys, where forecasters say there’s about a 40 percent chance of gusts exceeding 55 miles per hour.

The advisory is scheduled to be in effect from 1 p.m. until 10 p.m. Tuesday. 

READ MORE: One Year Later: Missoula’s Epic Windstorm Still Leaves Its Mark

Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor furniture, umbrellas, trash cans, and any other loose items that could be blown around by the strong winds. Tree limbs could also come down in some areas. 

Drivers should use extra caution as well, especially those traveling in RVs or other high-profile vehicles that can be more difficult to control in strong crosswinds. 

A Brief but Blustery Weather Event

The good news is the event should be short-lived, but it could make for a blustery Tuesday afternoon and evening across much of Western Montana, particularly in the Missoula and Bitterroot Valleys. 

READ MORE: Missoula County: What You Need to Know After the Severe Thunder Storm

Stay safe, secure those loose outdoor items, and keep an eye on the forecast as conditions develop.