High Wind — Madison River Valley, Montana

2025-10-19 · Madison River Valley, Montana

Event narrative

Montana DOT sensor Norris Hill measured two instances of high sustained winds over this timeframe, in addition to a peak gust of 62 mph at 1115 AM MDT.

Wider weather episode

Strengthening cross barrier flow, increased ridgetop stability, and a strengthening pressure gradient combined to result in a period of strong winds along the Rocky Mountain Front beginning early morning October 19. Further south a sufficient pressure gradient allowed for localized high winds at the northern end of the Madison River Valley (Norris Hill).

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1294339. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.