The Missoula County commissioners declared a state of emergency Thursday after a damaging wind storm pummeled the region Wednesday night, prompting local, state and federal leaders to speak out on the incident.
The county commissioners declared the emergency as crews clear downed trees across the city of Missoula and power companies work to reestablish power to tens of thousands of residents in western Montana.
“Missoula County staff and community partners are working hard to repair infrastructure, open roads and protect public safety,” the three-member commission said in a statement. It was a rough night and folks are still reeling from the aftermath of the storm. Please call (406)-258-INFO for non-emergency questions, go to Missoula.co/storm first for online updates, or don’t hesitate to dial 9-1-1 if you are experiencing a true emergency.
Patrick Maddison pauses on a bike ride to take a photo of damage done to Evan McComsey’s house during Wednesday’s storm in Missoula on Thursday, July 25.
Missoula Mayor Andrea Davis said she has been incredibly grateful for the first responders and line workers who have worked nonstop to get power back online for some people within the city limits.
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“The teamwork and response have been outstanding,” Davis said. “There are parts of our area that have downed power lines. Today, Thursday, crews are out removing storm debris and addressing power outages, and they ask if you can, please stay home and off the streets.”
The storm event, which hit Missoula at around 9 p.m., created 80-mph wind gusts at the Missoula International Airport and caused widespread damage to western Montana. A weather station on Mount Sentinel recorded a 109-mph gust.
The Red Cross has taken over the Missoula County Elections Center at 140 North Russel St. for residents who need to charge their personal devices. It will also provide air conditioning and a shower (towel required), but no medical services will be available. Additionally, the Christian Life Center at 3801 S. Russell St. has opened for rest and showers until 8 p.m. Thursday.
The situation has drawn responses from state and federal leaders.
Western Montana U.S. House Rep. Ryan Zinke said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter, that he is closely monitoring the situation.
“As restoration efforts are underway, I encourage Missoulians to heed emergency managers’ advice and stay up to date with the following to stay informed for updates on the progress,” Zinke said in the statement, citing Northwestern Energy, Missoula Electric Co-op and Missoula County as sources for information.
Sen. Jon Tester said in a statement on X that he is monitoring the impacts of last night’s storms and the power outages.
“As crews work to restore service and clear debris, be sure to use extra caution on the roads, and take to follow guidance from local officials,” Tester said in the statement.
Kaitlin Price, the press secretary for Gov. Greg Gianforte, said in a statement that the governor is watching the situation closely and could provide help from the state.
“(The governor) will bring the necessary resources to bear in the recovery,” Price said in an email.
Troy Downing, the state’s auditor and a candidate for the eastern Montana U.S. House seat, said on X that his office is standing by to help with insurance claims from the storm damage.
“If you suffered damages and need assistance with insurance claims, contact our office at 406-444-2040,” Downing said in a statement.
Montana Public Service Commission, which regulates the NorthWestern Energy said it has contacted NorthWestern Energy regarding the restoration of electric power and services while monitoring the situation.
County Commission Chair Dave Strohmaier verbally declared the state of emergency on Thursday and the county will formally declare the emergency at its public administration meeting next Tuesday at 10 a.m., according to county Communications Manager Allison Franz.
Griffen Smith is the local government reporter for the Missoulian.
