Idaho – Snow starts piling up quickly across eastern Idaho’s high country today, dulling ridgelines and turning mountain roads slick by midday. Cold air settles in early, and once snow begins, it does not let up easily.
According to the National Weather Service in Pocatello, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for multiple mountain zones. The Bear River Range enters the advisory at 11 a.m. this morning, continuing through 5 a.m. Thursday, while the Caribou Range, Big Hole Mountains, Centennial Mountains, and Island Park areas see impacts beginning by late afternoon. Snow totals above 6,500 feet range from 4 to 14 inches, with the highest elevations most likely to see the deepest accumulation.
Travel conditions will deteriorate steadily through the afternoon and evening. Routes near Emigration Summit, Island Park, Victor, Swan Valley, and Kilgore may become snow-packed with limited visibility at times. Slippery pavement and compacted snow will make braking difficult, especially on curves and mountain passes.
Snow continues through Wednesday, maintaining hazardous travel conditions into the evening. Drivers heading into the mountains should expect delays and possible road restrictions. Even lower elevations may experience slick conditions as temperatures hover near freezing.
Conditions slowly improve late Thursday morning as snowfall tapers, though residual snow and ice may linger on untreated roads. No significant warming arrives immediately, keeping refreeze concerns in place after sunset.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and carry winter safety supplies. The Idaho Transportation Department recommends checking 511.idaho.gov before departing, as conditions can change quickly in mountain terrain.
Looking ahead, longer-range outlooks hint at a gradual warming trend early next week, but winter remains firmly in control through the end of this system.
