Windstorm rips through region; downs trees, causes power outages in Lincoln

Strong winds that tore through western Montana last week up trees, damaged buildings and led to power outages throughout the Upper Blackfoot.

An extended period of abnormally strong, gusty wind began Jan. 12 and intensified throughout much of the day Jan. 13, with peak wind gusts recorded in the early afternoon Wednesday.

The weather station at the Lincoln Ranger District, near the Lincoln airport...