Temperatures will be close to record highs this afternoon. Add wind gusts of up to around 40 mph, and fire weather conditions will increase greatly today.

High temperatures around the region will be mainly in the 90s, with some areas approaching record highs. If the Billings airport records 97°, it will tie the June 21 record.

With low humidity, very hot temperatures, and wind, Southeast Montana is under a Red Flag Warning for increased wildfire risk this afternoon and this evening.

Areas of extreme Eastern Montana are also under the gun for severe storms. All of northeastern Montana, and areas from Miles City to the East could have storms that include damaging wind and large hail.

Billings forecast:

Today… Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. If we reach 97, it will tie the record set on June 21, 2005. Winds increase this afternoon with gusts as high as 40 miles an hour.

Tonight… Mostly clear, with a low of about 53. Wind gusts in the evening will decrease after dark.

Wednesday… Sunny, and around 85 for a high.