Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Large Hail and 60 MPH Winds Threaten Big Horn and Yellowstone Counties, Montana
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for portions of Big Horn and Yellowstone Counties, Montana, as a powerful thunderstorm moves across the region with the potential for large hail, damaging winds, and torrential rainfall.
The severe storm was located approximately 22 miles south of Ballantine, Montana, or 24 miles southeast of Billings, moving northeast at 20 MPH. The storm is capable of producing 1.25-inch hail (half-dollar size) and wind gusts up to 60 MPH.
Residents across the warned area should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions as this storm moves through communities and rural areas.
Severe Thunderstorm Impacts: Hail and Wind Damage Threat
This storm is capable of producing significant damage, including:
- Hail damage to vehicles
- Damage to roofs, siding, windows, and outdoor property
- Downed trees and tree limbs from strong wind gusts
- Power outages caused by damaging winds
- Hazardous travel conditions from heavy rain and debris
Large hail can shatter vehicle windows, damage crops, and create dangerous conditions for people and animals caught outdoors.
The strongest wind gusts could reach 60 MPH, which is strong enough to break branches, damage structures, and create dangerous outdoor conditions.
Torrential Rainfall Creates Flash Flooding Concern
In addition to hail and damaging winds, torrential rainfall is occurring with this severe thunderstorm.
Heavy rainfall rates may quickly overwhelm drainage systems, causing:
- Flash flooding on roads and low-lying areas
- Water accumulation in urban areas
- Rapid rises in small streams and drainage channels
- Dangerous driving conditions due to reduced visibility and standing water
Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Water depth can be difficult to judge, and fast-moving water can sweep vehicles away.
Communities Should Prepare for Severe Weather
Residents near Billings, Ballantine, and surrounding areas of Big Horn and Yellowstone Counties should remain weather aware as this storm continues moving northeast.
Safety actions include:
- Move vehicles under shelter if possible to protect against hail damage
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects
- Stay indoors during the strongest winds and lightning
- Avoid open fields, high terrain, and isolated trees during thunderstorms
- Monitor updated weather alerts from local officials and the National Weather Service
Dangerous Lightning and Storm Hazards Continue
Severe thunderstorms can produce deadly cloud-to-ground lightning, even when heavy rain begins to fall or the storm appears to weaken.
Lightning safety reminders:
- Go indoors immediately when thunder is heard
- Avoid water activities during storms
- Stay away from windows during strong wind and hail
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before returning outdoors
Radar Watch HQ Severe Weather Alert
Radar Watch HQ is monitoring this Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Montana as storms continue developing across the Northern Plains.
The combination of large hail, damaging 60 MPH winds, intense rainfall, and flash flooding potential creates a dangerous situation for communities across Big Horn and Yellowstone Counties.
Stay weather aware and continue monitoring updated warnings as this storm moves through the region.
Alert Type: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Location: Big Horn & Yellowstone Counties, Montana
Threats: 1.25-inch hail • 60 MPH winds • Flash flooding • Lightning
Storm Movement: Northeast at 20 MPH
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Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
