Strong winds disrupt power and fell trees across the region

A cold front brought strong winds to north-central Montana on Friday, October 4, 2024.

Winds began to howl around 7 p.m., with gusts reaching speeds of 73 miles per hour at Great Falls International Airport.

Other gusts recorded include 79 mph at Havre Airport, 74 mph at Fort Shaw and 67 mph at Malmstrom Air Force Base.

Visitors to Cirque Italia's “Water Circus” show in the Holiday Village Mall parking lot were evacuated as a precaution.

According to NorthWestern Energy, thousands of people are without power in and around Great Falls, and even more in other communities in the region.

Northwest Energy

The power company said crews have been dispatched to restore power, but there is no word on how long that will take.

Marias River Electric Cooperative posted on Facebook: “We are aware of power outages in several areas including Shelby, Sunburst, Kevin and near the Tiber Dam due to high winds. Crews are working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. Please. “Stay away from downed power lines or poles and report them immediately to 406.434.5575.”

Trees were also toppled across the region, in some cases falling onto roads and blocking traffic.

Tommy Lynch

Great Falls Mayor Cory Reeves wrote: “As everyone knows, we are experiencing a massive storm in the Electric City. Please be patient as city workers are doing their best to clear fallen trees and debris from the roads. Northwestern Energy.” is also working to restore power to our city. Please remember all of our first responders and city employees as they work diligently to restore our roads and city services.

Tommy Lynch

Winds will ease as the night progresses, although it will still be breezy with gusts over 40 miles per hour possible.

We will keep you updated as we receive further information regarding storm damage.