Early Heat Wave in the West; Fire Concerns in the Plains

An anomalously early heat wave will continue to intensify and expand across the West and Southwest as the week progresses. Numerous daily and potentially monthly record highs are expected to be broken. Elevated to critical fire weather conditions are expected today across the High Plains and southern Plains. Lake effect snow downwind of the Great Lakes will taper off today. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Tue, Mar 17, 2026 at 9:58:43 am MDT

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National Weather Service Great Falls, MT

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Unseasonably Warm Later This Week

Urban Snowmelt Expected Wednesday through Saturday

Get ready for an early taste of summer! 🌡️ Unseasonably warm weather is on the way for western Montana and north central Idaho from Tuesday through Friday. We're forecasting highs in the 60s and 70s for western MT valleys, and upper 70s to 80s for lower-elevation ID valleys. What you need to know: With the sudden heat and incoming rain, we are going to see rapid snowmelt. Keep an eye out for poor drainage and large puddles in urban areas. It's a great time to make sure the storm drains on your street are clear of debris! 🌧️🏔️

Impact: Rapid snowmelt driven by temperatures in the 60s and 70s will lead to standing water and ponding across the Northern Rockies from Wednesday, March 18th through Saturday, March 21st. Details: As the warm-up continues, standing water will accumulate on roads and residential properties. Expect water to infiltrate basements and low-lying outbuildings. Additionally, snow and debris clogging culverts will force water to sheet over roadways, creating unpredictable driving hazards. Action: Take time now to clear snow and ice away from your home's foundation and nearby storm drains. Never drive through flooded or water-covered roadways.

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Early Heat Wave in the West; Fire Concerns in the Plains

NWS Forecast Office Missoula, MT