The National Weather Service office in Great Falls issued a Heat Advisory for portions of central, north central, and southwest Montana beginning Friday night and running through 9 p.m. Sunday, July 26. Helena falls within the advisory area. Forecasters are calling for high temperatures between 90 and 95 degrees, with conditions capable of causing heat-related illness in people who spend extended time outdoors or in unventilated spaces.
The NWS warning specifically flagged the danger of leaving young children and pets in unattended vehicles, noting that car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes. That risk is not limited to the hottest part of the afternoon — vehicles parked in direct sun can become dangerous even when outside temperatures are in the mid-80s.
Helena residents looking to beat the heat this weekend can check cooling resources through Lewis and Clark County. The NWS advises anyone who must be outside during peak afternoon hours to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing, and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces when possible. Check on elderly neighbors and anyone without reliable air conditioning, particularly through Sunday evening when the advisory expires.