Montanans urged to review severe weather plans as storms move in

MONTANA — Thunderstorms continue moving through parts of Montana as weather experts said it was time to review severe weather plans.

In Montana, tornadoes do happen, even if many people more often connect them with places like Kansas and Oklahoma. Meteorologists said preparation matters as severe weather season gets underway across the state.

The National Weather Service said Montana averaged about eight tornado reports each year. It also said the greatest risk was generally across eastern Montana.

Meteorologists explained that a tornado watch meant conditions were favorable for severe weather. They said a warning meant a tornado was occurring or expected soon and that people should move to shelter right away.

William McKeown-Robbie, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service Billings, laid out what that meant for people at home.

"If a tornado warning is issued, that means that tornado is either imminent or already occurring. The best thing to do is get to the most interior room of your home on the lowest floor of that structure. Basically, just put as many walls between you and the outside as you possibly can," he said.

Meteorologists also warned that mobile homes, motorhomes and RVs were not safe shelters during a tornado. They said people should have a plan to reach a sturdier structure before severe weather developed.

They also encouraged anyone planning to hike, camp, attend outdoor events or travel to check the forecast beforehand. They said people should also make sure they had a way to receive weather alerts, especially in areas with limited cell service.

The National Weather Service said some of Montana's most damaging storms came from large hail and powerful straight-line winds. Experts said that was why every severe weather warning should be taken seriously.