The National Weather Service office in Great Falls issued a Heat Advisory late Thursday night covering portions of southwest Montana, including the Helena area, with the warning running through 9 p.m. Sunday. Forecasters say high temperatures could reach the upper 90s to near 100 degrees, with Saturday expected to be the worst of it.
The advisory affects central, north central, and southwest Montana at lower elevations. The primary concern is heat illness — heat exhaustion and heat stroke — particularly for people who work or spend time outdoors, elderly residents, young children, and anyone without reliable access to air conditioning. The Weather Service is advising residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day, and check on neighbors and family members who may be vulnerable.
Helena's summers run hot, but sustained temperatures near 100 degrees are not typical. Anyone needing a cooling option this weekend should know that the Lewis and Clark Public Library on North Last Chance Gulch is air-conditioned and open during regular hours. The Heat Advisory remains in effect until 9 p.m. Sunday, July 26.