Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Cascade and Judith Basin Counties, Montana
The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for West Central Judith Basin County and Southeastern Cascade County in central Montana. Residents in the warned area should prepare for quarter-size (1.00 inch) hail and damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph as the storm moves through the region.
These storms are capable of producing dangerous weather in a short amount of time. Everyone in the warning area should seek sturdy shelter immediately and remain indoors until the storm has passed.
Hazards
- Quarter-size hail (1.00 inch)
- Wind gusts up to 60 mph
Expected Impacts
The severe thunderstorm may produce:
- Hail damage to vehicles, crops, and outdoor property
- Wind damage to roofs and siding
- Downed tree limbs and uprooted trees
- Localized power outages due to falling branches and damaged power lines
- Reduced visibility during heavy rain and hail
Even storms with one-inch hail can dent vehicles, damage windows, and create hazardous travel conditions.
Safety Tips During a Severe Thunderstorm Warning
When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued:
- Move indoors immediately to a sturdy building.
- Stay away from windows and glass doors.
- Park vehicles in a garage or under sturdy shelter if it is safe to do so before the storm arrives.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects that can become airborne.
- Avoid traveling during the storm unless absolutely necessary.
- Never seek shelter beneath trees due to the risk of falling limbs and lightning.
Driving During the Storm
Motorists should use extra caution. Strong wind gusts can make driving difficult, especially for trucks, RVs, and trailers. Heavy rain and hail can quickly reduce visibility and create slippery roads.
If hail becomes intense while driving, safely pull off the roadway and remain inside your vehicle until conditions improve.
Stay Weather Aware
Severe thunderstorms in central Montana can strengthen rapidly, producing damaging winds, hail, dangerous lightning, and torrential rainfall. Continue monitoring trusted weather sources for updated warnings and be prepared to act quickly if conditions worsen.
Having multiple ways to receive weather alerts—including NOAA Weather Radio, weather apps, and local emergency notifications—can help keep you and your family safe during severe weather events.
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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.
