Montana’s First Frost Could Be Coming Sooner Than You Think

This is the time of year when we really start looking ahead to fall here in Montana. 

We're getting toward the end of August, and if you look closely, you may already see a few leaves beginning to change. We’re starting to get some cooler nights, although we can still see temperatures climbing into the 90s in some places. 

Before you know it, things are going to change. 

The Arrival of Frost: What to Expect

Especially here in Montana, frost season is coming. Eventually, we'll start seeing those overnight temperatures dip below freezing, even when we're still enjoying relatively warm afternoons. That big difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures is one of the sure signs that fall is arriving.

READ MORE: Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts Two Very Different Falls for Montana

Mark Your Calendars: First Day of Fall

Of course, we're continuing to lose daylight as we move toward the autumnal equinox, the official beginning of fall. This year, fall officially arrives on September 22. 

Preparing Your Garden for Frost

So, if you're someone who likes to garden or you still have plants outside that you want to protect, now is a good time to start thinking about that first frost. 

First Frost Predictions: Insights from The Old Farmer's Almanac

The Old Farmer's Almanac has released its predictions for the first frost dates of the season, giving you an idea of when you may need to start covering those plants or bringing some of them inside. 

READ MORE: Old Farmer’s Almanac Reveals When Montana’s Fall Colors Peak

They base their data on 1991-2020 climate data from NOAA and use a 30% probability, meaning there is a 3-in-10 chance that frost could occur before or after the date.

Understanding Montana's Microclimates

Remember, Montana has a lot of different microclimates. Higher elevations and some of our colder communities can see frost much earlier than other parts of the state. 

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Butte and some of the higher elevations are typically among the first areas to see those freezing temperatures. 

Keep scrolling below to see the predicted first frost dates from the Old Farmer's Almanac for Montana, and plan accordingly.