If you’re planning a trip or thinking about moving to Yellowstone County, you’ve probably heard the rumors about Montana. People talk like it’s a frozen wasteland nine months of the year. Honestly? That is not the case for the weather in Laurel MT.
Located just west of Billings, Laurel sits in a unique little pocket. It’s a place where you can experience a 50-degree temperature swing in a single afternoon. No joke. I’ve seen folks in shorts at noon scraping frost off their windshields by 5:00 PM. It is a land of extremes, but it’s a lot more livable than the "Arctic" reputation suggests.
The Reality of the Weather in Laurel MT
Most newcomers expect endless snow. While Laurel does get its share—averaging about 45 to 46 inches of snowfall annually—it doesn’t usually bury the town for months on end. Because of the lower elevation (about 3,300 feet) compared to the mountain passes, the sun comes out and eats that snow pretty quick.
You’ll get these "Chinook" winds. They are basically a warm hug from the Pacific. These winds can raise temperatures from sub-zero to above freezing in a matter of hours. It’s wild. One day you’re dealing with a December low of 22°F, and the next, it’s 45°F and the sidewalks are bone dry.
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Summer is Hotter Than You Think
July is the heavy hitter.
If you think Montana stays cool all summer, you're in for a surprise. Average highs in July hit 88°F, but it’s common to see stretches of 90s and the occasional 100-degree spike. The air is dry, though. It’s that "crispy" heat that doesn't make you feel like you're breathing through a wet towel.
- Hottest Month: July (Avg High 88°F)
- Sunlight: Over 2,600 hours of sunshine a year.
- ** Humidity:** Generally low, making the heat way more tolerable than the Midwest.
The nights are the best part. Even after a scorching day, the temperature usually drops into the 50s or low 60s. You can actually turn off the AC and open the windows.
When the Wind Won't Quit
Wind is the one thing locals actually complain about. It isn't just a breeze; it’s a lifestyle.
Winter and early spring are the peak times for the gusts. In January, you’ll often see average wind speeds around 11 mph, but that doesn't account for the gusts that can knock over a patio chair or make highway travel a nightmare for high-profile vehicles. The National Weather Service in Billings often issues high wind warnings for this stretch of the I-90 corridor.
If you're driving a camper through Laurel in March, keep both hands on the wheel.
The Best Months (According to Locals)
September is the undisputed champion.
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The tourists have mostly cleared out. The air is sharp and clear. Highs sit in the comfortable 70s, and the fall foliage along the Yellowstone River starts to pop. It’s perfect for fishing or just walking the trails at Riverside Park without breaking a sweat or freezing your nose off.
May and June are great too, but they are "unsettled." This is when Laurel gets most of its rain. We’re talking about roughly 14 to 15 inches of annual precipitation, and a big chunk of that falls in late spring. It turns the hills bright green for about three weeks before the July sun turns everything back to gold.
Winter Strategy
December and January are the coldest, with lows frequently dipping to 14°F or 15°F.
But here is the secret: it’s a dry cold. 20 degrees in Laurel feels a lot warmer than 20 degrees in a humid place like Seattle or Chicago. As long as the wind isn't howling, a light jacket is often enough for running errands.
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A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Weather here isn't a suggestion; it's the boss.
- Layering is a religion. You need a t-shirt, a hoodie, and a windbreaker in your car at all times.
- Wildfire smoke is the new "fifth season." In late August, smoke from fires in Idaho or Canada can settle in the valley, occasionally dropping air quality.
- Hail is real. Spring thunderstorms can get rowdy. If the sky looks a weird shade of green-gray, park your car under a roof.
Laurel’s climate is basically a test of flexibility. You get the big sky, the intense sun, and the occasional blast of Canadian air. It keeps life interesting.
Actionable Next Steps:
If you are visiting soon, check the NWS Billings forecast rather than a generic national app; the local topography affects Laurel specifically. For those moving here, prioritize a home with an attached garage—not for the snow, but to protect your vehicle from the summer hail and the winter wind-chill. Prepare for high UV levels by keeping sunscreen in your glovebox year-round, as the high elevation and clear skies mean you'll burn even when it's chilly.