Montana is falling behind other states in its efforts to prepare for the climate risks from it extreme heat, drought, and wildfires. Compared to most other states, Montana has taken less action to prepare for both its current risks and its future risks. It has taken almost no action to prepare for climate change-related impacts, with the notable exception of its 2015 State Water Plan.
America's Preparedness Report Card 2015
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Extreme Heat
Montana has a smaller extreme heat threat than most states, but it has also taken less action to prepare than all but one other state. It therefore receives a failing grade for its actions to address its heat risks. Montana has barely begun to understand climate change-related extreme heat in the state and has taken no action to plan for it.
Drought
Montana earns an F for its drought preparation because it faces one of the highest threats in the country and has one of the worst preparedness scores. Montana has taken much less action than most states to address its current risks. The Montana State Water Plan is a good step forward but far more needs to be done in the face of the extreme drought threat Montana is projected to see in the future.
Wildfires
Montana earns its best grade for its preparedness actions taken to address wildfire risks. The state faces a lower threat level than most states affected by wildfires, but is still taking strong action to prepare for current impacts. Montana has even begun to understand its future wildfire risks by tracking its current fires and trends. Developing an adaptation plan is the next step the state needs to take.
Inland Flooding
Grades were assigned only when threats were identified as priorities for that state. For details, see the methodology.
Coastal Flooding
Grades were assigned only when threats were identified as priorities for that state. For details, see the methodology.