BILLINGS — Today may be the hottest day overall for the rest of 2020, but wildfire smoke may overshadow the heat.
High temperatures hit the 90s to low 100s possible across southern Montana and norther Wyoming Monday, with a few record high temperatures at least challenged. Relative humidity percentages will drop to the teens and 20s with the heat of the afternoon.
A layer of smoke mainly from California wildfires will hold back the warm up by several degrees and increase concerns for those with respiratory problems. Limit activity if smoke becomes thicker through the day.
A few thunderstorms will develop off the mountains later Monday but will have a hard time wetting the ground with the dry air. Gusty winds will develop near storms.
The overall trend is to cool temperature gradually through the week, and afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms will become more frequent. Highs could easily drop to the 70s by Sunday.
Billings forecast:
Monday… Sunny and hot with a high around 98. Areas of smoke will increase, and may hold back the warmer temperatures. Light wind.
Monday night… Partly to mostly cloudy with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the evening. Storms could produce gusty winds. Low about 66.
Tuesday… Increasing clouds but still very warm. High near 91. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms later in the day.
