During large or widespread outages, our automated texting system can be delayed or inaccurate. Due to the upcoming weather event, Flathead Electric Cooperative is pausing the automated alerts at this time to avoid creating any confusion at the onset of this storm.
Update – March 11, 2026 – 8 p.m.
During large or widespread outages, our automated texting system can be delayed or inaccurate. Due to the upcoming weather event, Flathead Electric Cooperative is pausing the automated alerts at this time to avoid creating any confusion at the onset of this storm.
Members can still report outages by texting “OUT” or check the status of their electric service by texting “STATUS” to 406-751-4449. Members can also report non-outage system issues or damage by texting “ISSUE” to that same number.
Members can also continue to check the Outage Map and Flathead Electric’s website and Facebook page for the latest information.
Automated outage text alerts will be restored as soon as feasible once Flathead Electric can assess system damage and update the Co-op’s outage platform to better ensure the information being sent is as accurate and up to date as possible.
Original Weather Alert
A High Wind Warning has been issued for Northwest Montana, effective from midnight tonight through Thursday, March 12. Damaging winds are possible, with gusts of 50–70 mph in Flathead and Lincoln counties and higher speeds in mountainous areas. These conditions could cause falling trees, downed power lines, hazardous travel, and power outages.
We encourage our members to prepare now by securing loose outdoor items, charging devices, gathering emergency supplies, and planning for possible extended outages.
Flathead Electric Cooperative crews are proactively preparing to support our members throughout this event. Our crews are actively monitoring the latest weather patterns, preparing essential materials, and staging equipment for rapid deployment. We are also reaching out to our neighboring utilities and partners to ensure mutual aid is ready should the situation escalate.
Weather forecasts are a moving target and don’t always unfold as predicted. However, we treat every forecast as a “worst-case” reality, ensuring our teams are positioned and ready to restore power safely the moment conditions allow.
Important Safety Reminders
Downed Lines: Always assume any downed power line is energized. If you see a downed power line, stay at least 30 feet away, keep others back, and immediately report the hazard by calling 911 or Flathead Electric at 406-751-4449.
Outage Reporting: If your power goes out, check the Outage Map and report it via your portal or by calling 406-751-4449.
Text Alerts: You can sign up to receive automated text alerts about outages affecting your home or business. These alerts will notify you when an outage occurs, when power has been restored, and may include other updates related to the outage.
During large or widespread outages, our outage map may become overloaded. This can delay updates or cause information to appear temporarily inaccurate. If that happens, we may temporarily pause text alerts until we can provide accurate, up-to-date information.
Because of the current weather event, we may need to pause alerts. If we do, we will resume them and update outage information as quickly as possible.
Learn more and sign up for automatic outage texting.
Preparation: Charge your devices now, secure loose outdoor items, and ensure your flashlights have fresh batteries. Make sure you have an alternate heat source and keep it properly prepared. For example, source and properly store kerosene for your heater, candles, and wood, gas, or pellets for stoves. Learn other safety reminders here.
