Strong Winds Take Aim At Central U.S.

A potent storm system and its cold front will generate gusty winds across a large portion of the central U.S. today.

The system will quickly zip across the Northwest, where it will wring out most of its moisture. Very little in the way of rainfall is expected in the central U.S. today, but the disturbance will be wrapped up enough to cause strong winds.

High Wind Warnings and Wind Advisories cover a wide swath of the northern Rockies and northern Plains, including most of Montana, North Dakota, and northwestern South Dakota. Most of the Great Basin, Wyoming, South Dakota, and western Nebraska are under Red Flag Warnings due to the combined high winds and low humidity, which could lead to wildfire dangers.

The strongest winds across the northern Rockies and northern Plains will top out at 25 to 40 mph today, with gusts peaking at 45 to 60 mph.

Be sure to secure any loose outdoor items before the wind hits! Also avoid starting any outdoor fires, as the strong winds and dry conditions could lead to extreme wildfire behavior.