National Weather Service
Hydrologic Outlook Issued for Western Montana
Feb 21, 2025
The National Weather Service has issued a Hydrologic Outlook for Powell, Deer Lodge, and Silver Bow Counties in Montana, as well as Lemhi County in Idaho, due to a significant warm-up expected this weekend into early next week.
Starting Saturday afternoon and continuing through Monday afternoon, high temperatures are anticipated to reach the 40s, with overnight temperatures near or above freezing. This will result in rapid lowland snowmelt, leading to ponding of water in low-lying areas, particularly in regions with poor drainage and in basements or crawlspaces.
There is also a concern for ice jam releases on small streams and creeks, which may contribute to localized flooding. Rain showers are predicted, resulting in precipitation totals up to 0.20 inches across valley areas by Sunday into Monday, and possibly reaching over 0.50 inches in higher terrains.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest weather and river forecasts from the National Weather Service at weather.gov/Missoula or water.noaa.gov/wfo/mso.
| Counties Affected: | Powell, Deer Lodge, Silver Bow (MT), Lemhi (ID), Western Montana |
| Impacts: | Ponding of water, localized flooding, ice jam releases |
| Expected Temperatures: | Highs in the 40s; Lows near/below freezing |
| Precipitation: | Up to 0.20 inches in valleys; up to 0.50 inches in higher terrain |
| Forecast Duration: | February 22 – February 24 |
Subscribe to our weekly email
Get these stories delivered to your inbox every Monday.