Damaging Wind in Montana, July 21, 1997

Microburst from a thunderstorm caused widespread damage. Wind gusts estimated at least 80 mph caused 2 injuries (a broken leg and an injured head) as trees fell on houses and through to people inside. Trees were either snapped off or uprooted, including Willow, Cottonwood, and Spruce trees. Power poles were snapped off 4-5 feet above ground. Almost every street in the town was blocked by fallen trees and marble sized hail also fell. Damage to the public sector included blocked roads, loss of the chlorinator for the city water system and loss of the lift pump for the sewer system, An elementary school had a damaged roof. Loss to the private sector included damaged homes and vehicles, loss of home freezer contents, and loss of landscaping. The Red Cross estimated 20 homes with major damage and 70 with minor damage within the city limits. Four insurance companies estimated damage at $1.5 million.