Thunderstorms Could Bring Gusty Winds and Heavy Rain

A weather system heading into the area from the west coast will hit western Montana Thursday afternoon, September 5, with the full thunderstorm package.

Forecaster Luke Robinson with the National Weather Service office in Missoula said early Thursday morning that these storms will be arriving in mid-afternoon.

"We could see some strong thunderstorms with winds gusting to over 50 miles per hour and some with small hail," Robinson said. "One of the concerns will be heavy rains, and some local flash-flooding could occur, especially in areas where there are burn scars."

Robinson said the storms could be dangerous for anyone caught out-of-doors.

"We will see some frequent lightning, so if you see one of these storms coming and you're outside, get indoors."

Robinson said the storms will back off on Thursday evening, but may return with equal intensity on Friday.

National Weather Service Forecaster Luke Robinson