Northern Rockies and High Plains Ready for Triple-Digit Temperatures

Posted: July 16, 2021 9:55 am

Wildfire Smoke May Temper Temperatures a Smidge

It is not unusual for extreme heat to set in throughout many parts of the US during the month of July. However, the temperatures are going to exceed even normal July weather for a large section of the High Plains and the northern Rockies over the next several days.

Unseasonable Warmth Continues for the West

This upcoming hot weather is yet another wave of heat that has characterized this summer in this corner of the country. The western half of the US has seen unseasonably warm temperatures for the majority of the summer with multiple heatwaves affecting the region.

Welcoming Back the Heat Dome Out West

Another heat dome is predicted to trap the hot temperatures starting this weekend and continuing into next week starting first in the northern Rockies. This heat dome will exacerbate what is already hotter than average temperatures in this area. While the interior Northwest has seen the bulk of the hottest weather out West, this heat will now start to spread farther to the east with this latest weather pattern.

Will More Records Fall?

There is a strong chance that some daily high-temperature records may fall over the next few days. The forecast high for Billings, Montana, on Saturday is 99 degrees, just two degrees shy of the all-time record set in 1937. Sunday’s record high is 104 degrees, set back in 1955. Forecasters are predicting that this record may be tied or broken as triple-digit temperatures are expected for this day. The high on Monday is currently forecast at 105 degrees, equal to the record set in 1960.

Where the Heat Will Be

While some areas of Montana will be under excessive heat watches for the next few days, other states will also be getting in on the action. Records may fall in places such as Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho. The heat will expand as far north as Alberta and Saskatchewan in Canada.

Wildfires May Keep Temperature a Bit Lower

The ongoing smoke in the air due to wildfires across the West may temper some of the potential record-breaking temperatures. The hazy skies could work to lower the mercury just a bit. However, this smoke will likely translate to poor air quality in the areas closest to the flames.

Health officials are warning people with respiratory conditions to stay indoors, particularly during the peak of the heat in the afternoon hours. It is also important to be diligent about your hydration needs during this time of extreme heat.

This weather pattern also brings the danger of afternoon thunderstorms. Any chance of lightning could set off a potential fire, especially in these drought-stricken areas.

While the temperatures are expected to drop by next week, the mercury will still likely be slightly above normal for this time of the year.

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