Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts Two Very Different Falls for Montana

We've seen just about everything when it comes to weather in Montana this year. 

From Rain to Heat: The Shifting Patterns of Summer

June brought more rain than we're used to seeing in many parts of the state. Then it seemed like Mother Nature flipped a switch, and suddenly we were dealing with near-record heat in some areas. 

Looking Ahead: Fall Weather Forecast for Montana

Even though we're still in the middle of summer, it's not too early to start looking ahead to fall. 

According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, Montana could be split into two very different weather patterns this autumn. 

Eastern Montana: Warmer and Wetter?

For Eastern Montana, part of the Northern Plains region, the outlook calls for warmer-than-normal temperatures along with the possibility of above-average rainfall. 

Western Montana: Cooler and Wetter Conditions Expected

For Western Montana and the Intermountain region, the forecast is almost the opposite. The Almanac is predicting cooler-than-normal temperatures with above-average precipitation. 

READ MORE: Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts Later Frost Dates for Parts of Montana

There's been a lot of discussion lately about the possibility of El Niño, and even talk of a stronger-than-usual event developing. While it's still too early to know exactly how that could affect Montana, the Almanac's long-range forecast suggests Western Montana could end up cooler and wetter than normal. 

If that forecast holds, it wouldn't necessarily be bad news.

2026 Fall Forecast

More moisture is almost always welcome in Montana, especially after years of drought concerns. It's good news for farmers, ranchers, gardens, and wildfire conditions if we can get the extra rain. 

Of course, if you're hoping for a long stretch of warm fall weather, those cooler temperatures in Western Montana may not be what you were hoping for. 

The Nature of Forecasting: Expectations vs. Reality

As always, long-range forecasts aren't guaranteed, but it’s always interesting to watch and compare with what actually happens. 

If this forecast ends up being right, you may want to start planning those fall gardens now. Or at least start thinking about what you'd like to plant.