Why the Farmer’s Almanac Spring Forecast Matters for Montana This Year

Montana’s weather is always a topic of conversation, but this January it’s been discussed even more than usual. Parts of Montana have experienced an unusually warm and mild winter so far. It’s not every day that people get the chance to choose between golfing and skiing in Montana in mid-January.  

Unusually Warm January Raises Fire Season Concerns

With the mild weather and lack of snow in parts of the state, there are many in Montana who are concerned about the upcoming fire season. There is some possible good news on the horizon.  

According to Northern Rockies Predictive Services Meteorologist Dan Borsum, Montana typically sees more precipitation in February and March than we do in January. The weather models look like there is still a possibility of that happening. 

READ MORE: Record Warmth in Montana: What It Means for Fire Season 

Old Farmer’s Almanac Spring Forecast for Montana

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its spring 2026 forecast, and it looks to be good news for those concerned about the upcoming fire season. According to the forecast, Montana should see a wetter-than-normal spring. While Western Montana is expected to see cooler-than-normal temperatures, Eastern Montana may see warmer-than-normal temperatures.  

READ MORE: Missoula Golf Course Opens in January Thanks to Unusual Montana Warmth

Montana’s regions are split up in the Old Farmer’s Almanac, with Western Montana included in the Intermountain region and Eastern Montana included in the High Plains region.  

The High Plains region (Eastern Montana) is also expected to see a warmer-than-normal April; that could see a 5°F average above-normal temperature. 

Meanwhile, Montana still has some winter left, and if the forecasts hold up, there will be some good news this spring.