The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 411 for portions of central and southeast Montana and north central Wyoming. This watch is effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 1:00 PM until 9:00 PM MDT.
The primary threats identified in the watch include scattered large hail, with isolated very large hail events up to 2.5 inches in diameter likely. Additionally, scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts up to 75 mph are possible, with a low threat for an isolated tornado or two.
The development of supercells is expected this afternoon into central Montana, with storms forecasted to spread eastward through late evening. This could lead to large hail, strong thunderstorm outflow gusts, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes.
The severe thunderstorm watch area spans approximately 115 statute miles east and west of a line from 70 miles north of Lewistown, MT, to 60 miles south-southeast of Billings, MT. Residents in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for further statements or warnings.
Aviation concerns include the potential for severe thunderstorms with hail both at the surface and aloft, reaching sizes up to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts up to 65 knots are possible, along with cumulonimbus clouds with maximum tops reaching 500. The mean storm motion vector is 27025.
It is important for individuals in the affected areas to stay informed and prepared for severe weather conditions. Remember that a Severe Thunderstorm Watch means that conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms, and it is crucial to be vigilant and ready to take action if necessary.
For more information and updates on Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 411, please visit the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center’s website.
References:
– [Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 411](https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0411.html)
– [Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 411 Status Reports](https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ws0411.html)
