Gianforte Declares Disaster After Record Montana Windstorm

Overview

• The executive order, effective Dec. 18 for 45 days unless extended, authorizes state services and general fund spending for response and recovery.
• The State Emergency Coordination Center is fully activated, with declarations already filed by Ravalli and Flathead counties, Wheatland County, and the cities of Hamilton and Harlowton, and more expected from local and tribal governments.
• Reported peak gusts reached 91 mph in Helena and topped 104 mph near Bynum in Teton County.
• The storm damaged power lines, trees, vehicles, homes, and businesses, leaving thousands of residents without electricity as crews work to clear debris.
• The National Weather Service issued High Wind Warnings for every county and warned of freezing temperatures and heavy snow, with Winter Storm and Blizzard Warnings posted for multiple counties.