Glasgow, Montana's July Storms Led To A State Disaster Declaration

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has declared a disaster in the city of Glasgow after early July storms brought heavy rain and flash flooding that left damage across much of the community.

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The July 3 storms moved slowly over the area, dropping roughly 2 to 4 inches of rain in a short amount of time. That was enough to overwhelm storm drains and push water into streets and low-lying parts of town. Reports from the city described flooded roadways, damage to several businesses and erosion to both gravel and paved roads. The 6th Street underpass was among the hardest hit, filling with several feet of water and becoming unusable.

“Montanans in Glasgow experienced sudden, intense flooding that damaged roads, disrupted daily life, and affected local businesses,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This disaster declaration will help the community repair critical infrastructure more quickly and ensure local officials have the support they need to recover.”

City crews responded in the days that followed, making temporary repairs and addressing the most urgent issues. Glasgow officials issued a local disaster declaration on July 23 and put emergency plans into motion, but the scale of the damage went beyond what local crews and budgets could fully handle.

The governor’s order, which took effect Aug. 4, allows the state to step in with additional help. It will remain active for 45 days unless extended.

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Once a disaster is declared at the state level, it changes how quickly money and resources can move. Instead of going through the normal budgeting process, which can take time, the state can tap into emergency funds right away.

Local officials first document the damage and submit those details, and the state reviews what’s needed. From there, funding can be released for repairs, cleanup and other response efforts.

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The declaration also allows state agencies to coordinate more directly and, if needed, opens the door to requesting federal assistance to help cover costs.