12/17/2025
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****Update**** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/18/2025
Morning Update:
As of this morning, more than 14,000 residents in Flathead County remain without power following yesterday’s weather event. Flathead Electric Cooperative crews have been working tirelessly around the clock to restore service under difficult conditions. While progress continues, we anticipate that some residents may remain without power for another couple of days.
In addition, several roads remain partially or completely blocked due to downed trees and debris. Road and utility crews are actively working to clear hazards and reopen routes as quickly and safely as possible.
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is extremely grateful for the hard work and dedication of all personnel involved in mitigating this incident utility workers, road crews, first responders, and support staff.
Please help us help you:
Check on friends, family, and neighbors especially those who may be elderly or vulnerable
Use caution when traveling and avoid blocked roadways
Report emergencies through appropriate channels
Thank you to our community for your patience, resilience, and willingness to look out for one another.
****UPDATE****
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/17/2025
Update
6:00PM- Power outages, downed trees, and road closures continue across Flathead County. Crews are working to address the damage; but some areas may take several days to clear. The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office urges drivers to use caution, especially in wooded areas, as some roads may be closed or reduced to one lane due to downed trees. A temporary emergency shelter is open at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building until midnight for residents who need access to power, restrooms, and heat.
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****UPDATE****
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/17/2025
EMERGENCY DECLARATION
3:30PM
At the request of Sheriff Heino, the Flathead County Commissioners have signed an emergency declaration due to today’s high wind event. Severe winds have damaged numerous power lines and caused widespread outages. Additionally, winter weather is moving into the Marias Pass area, which may further complicate travel over the pass.
This declaration grants the Sheriff the authority to take emergency actions necessary to protect public safety.
****UPDATE****
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/17/2025
Emergency Shelter at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building
2:00 PM- Power outages continue to impact widespread portions of the county. the Flathead County Fairgrounds have made the Expo Building available as a temporary shelter for individuals that need access to power, restrooms and heat.
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****UPDATE****
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/17/2025
High Wind Conditions Continue to Impact Flathead County
12:00PM
Fallen trees are affecting multiple roadways across Flathead County. Fire and road crews working to resolve issues as quickly as possible. HWY 2 W is now clear for travel up to the Lincoln County border, but a few power lines remain down closer to Libby. Hwy 93S near Somers is expected to be cleared and navigable within the hour.
As a reminder, it is not necessary to call 911 to report a downed tree unless there is an immediate threat to life. Continue to treat all downed power lines as live and dangerous.
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office appreciates your cooperation and patience in this evolving situation. For more information, call 406-758-2111.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/17/2025
Severe High Wind Conditions Impacting Flathead County
Flathead County, MT 10:00AM— The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is advising residents that the county is currently experiencing severe high wind conditions that are causing hazardous travel and widespread disruptions.
U.S. Highway 93 South near Somers is closed after a semi-truck was blown across the roadway. Multiple additional roads throughout the Flathead Valley are also closed due to downed trees, debris, and dangerous travel conditions.
Residents are encouraged to consider staying home or at work. Emergency responders are actively working to clear roadways; however, significant delays should be expected.
The Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that it is not necessary to call 911 to report a downed tree unless there is an immediate threat to life. To help ensure emergency resources remain available for critical incidents, please reserve calls to 911 for true emergencies.
Additionally, treat all downed power lines as live and extremely dangerous. Numerous power outages are affecting residents across the valley.
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as emergency services continue to respond to weather-related incidents and work to restore safe conditions.
For ongoing updates, residents are encouraged to monitor the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office page or call the Information Line at 406-758-2111.
