Severe storms in NW Montana caused 30,000+ outages, left one dead, and delayed power restoration in Libby.

Severe storms in Northwest Montana caused over 30,000 power outages, primarily in Flathead Electric Co-op areas, but by December 23, 2025, fewer than 100 customers remained without electricity, mostly in Lincoln County’s Libby due to difficult conditions. The storm also triggered icy road conditions leading to a fatal crash in the Bitterroot Valley. Meanwhile, Eric Strauss was named Montana’s new corrections director effective January 6, 2026, and Park City schools tested roofing material possibly containing asbestos after storm damage. Blacktail Mountain Ski Area opened for Christmas Eve despite low snowfall concerns. A Jordan nurse pleaded guilty to stealing prescription drugs, including fentanyl, and faces prison.