Montana is in for a deep freeze like no other as an unforgiving Arctic blast sweeps across the state, bringing dangerously low temperatures and wind chills that could reach a bone-chilling -60°F in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning, warning residents that this level of cold is life-threatening and could lead to frostbite in minutes, power outages, and impassable roads.
This is not just another cold snap—this is extreme, even by Montana standards. Power grids will be pushed to their limits, cars may not start, and even brief exposure to the cold could have serious consequences. Officials are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid travel, and take steps to protect their homes and loved ones.
How Cold Will It Get?
Temperatures are already well below zero, and the worst is still ahead. When you factor in the wind, it will feel shockingly cold, with some areas experiencing wind chills as low as -60°F.
- Glasgow – Currently -26°F, with wind chills expected to make it feel like -55°F to -60°F overnight.
- Wolf Point – Mostly cloudy with a current temperature of -33°F, and dropping even lower overnight.
- Malta – Currently -22°F, with lows reaching -33°F and wind chills near -60°F.
At these temperatures, exposed skin can freeze in less than 5 minutes. Even bundled up, prolonged exposure outside can lead to hypothermia, which can be fatal.
The Biggest Dangers to Watch Out For
This extreme cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s potentially deadly. Here’s why:
- Frostbite & Hypothermia – With wind chills this extreme, frostbite can set in within minutes. Hypothermia becomes a serious risk even inside poorly heated homes.
- Power Outages – The brutal cold will put massive strain on the power grid, increasing the risk of blackouts that could leave people without heat for hours or even days.
- Frozen Pipes & Home Damage – At these temperatures, pipes can freeze and burst, leaving homes without running water and causing thousands of dollars in damage.
- Treacherous Roads & Vehicle Failures – Many vehicles will struggle to start, fuel lines could freeze, and roads will be icy and dangerous. If you get stranded in these conditions, survival becomes extremely difficult.
What You Need to Do to Stay Safe
Officials are urging Montanans to take this Arctic blast seriously and prepare now:
- Stay indoors as much as possible. If you have to go outside, wear multiple layers, thick gloves, insulated boots, a hat, and a scarf. Cover all exposed skin.
- Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, food, water, extra batteries, and a fully charged phone.
- Prepare for possible power outages. Charge your phone, gather flashlights, extra blankets, and backup heating sources, and NEVER use a generator indoors (carbon monoxide poisoning is deadly).
- Protect your pets. Bring them inside! If they must be outside briefly, make sure they have warm bedding, access to unfrozen water, and a proper shelter.
- Check on elderly neighbors and those who may need help. Make sure they have a warm place to stay and enough supplies to get through this extreme cold.
How Long Will This Arctic Blast Last?
This dangerous deep freeze is expected to last through Wednesday, with temperatures staying brutally cold for days. Even after the warning expires, Montana will still be dealing with subzero temperatures and icy conditions, making travel, heating, and daily life extremely difficult.
Officials cannot stress enough how dangerous this cold is. This isn’t just another chilly day—it’s a life-threatening event that requires serious preparation. Stay indoors, stay warm, and check in on those who may need help.
