Montana Weird Weather: What is a Chinook?

Have you ever heard the saying, "If you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes?"

Well, Montana said, "Hold my beer, watch this," and pretty much takes the cake with its crazy weather. Among the state's most fascinating and unpredictable phenomena are the Chinook winds, often called the "snow eaters." These warm, dry winds have been known to melt feet of snow in mere hours, turning frigid winter days into spring-like afternoons.

Chinook winds are more than just a quirky weather event. Chinook winds are a scientific marvel and have landed Montana in the record books for the most significant temperature swings in the world. 

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How do Chinook winds work?

According to weatherbug.com, "These winds develop mainly in the colder months and are caused by a pressure gradient that forms as a strong, cold high-pressure system moves over the Rockies, forcing the winds to move toward lower pressure in lower elevations along the Front Range and High Plains." So basically, they are warmer Pacific winds that take a roller coaster ride over the Rockies and kiss Montana on the way through.

Montana's Bi-Polar Sets Weather Records

Loma, Montana, holds the world record for the greatest 24-hour temperature change. On January 15, 1972, the temperature skyrocketed an unbelievable 103°F, going from a bone-chilling -54°F to 49°F above zero. 

Great Falls International Airport also made history during a Chinook event. On January 11, 1980, the temperature leaped from -32°F to 15°F in just seven minutes—a 47°F rise which still holds the U.S. record for the fastest temperature change.

While these extreme cases are rare, a typical Chinook event can still bring a rapid 25°F to 50°F temperature increase, leaving Montanans reaching for their short sleeves in the middle of winter.

Have you ever experienced a chinook wind? Let us know by sending us a message on our station app. 

Credit: Weather Bug , AccuWeather