Weather
Idaho Weather Alert Oct. 30-Nov. 1: Heavy Mountain Snow Ahead
Boise, ID – A developing weekend storm pattern could bring heavy snowfall to Idaho's highest mountain elevations and widespread rain to lower valleys, with changing conditions potentially affecting mo
By Cameron Hayes · 2026-10-29T08:37:06.919Z
Boise, ID – A developing weekend storm pattern could bring heavy snowfall to Idaho's highest mountain elevations and widespread rain to lower valleys, with changing conditions potentially affecting mountain travel from Friday, Oct. 30, through Sunday, Nov. 1.
According to the National Weather Service in Boise, precipitation will return Friday before becoming more widespread late Saturday and Sunday across southwest Idaho and southeast Oregon.
Forecasters expect snow levels to hover between 5,500 and 6,500 feet throughout the weekend, keeping most lower elevation communities in the rain while allowing snow to accumulate across higher terrain.
Friday's weather will feature light showers beginning during the late morning and continuing into the evening. The greatest precipitation coverage is expected across Idaho's higher elevations.
Conditions become more active Saturday, Oct. 31, as widespread showers develop across the region.
The most significant mountain snowfall is expected Sunday, Nov. 1, particularly across west central Idaho, where heavy accumulations are possible on mountain summits.
The National Weather Service also indicates that minor snowfall accumulations could occur on high mountain passes, including Banner Summit along Idaho Highway 21.
Although specific snowfall totals have not been provided, even relatively light accumulations could create slick conditions for drivers traveling through higher elevations.
Motorists planning trips through mountain corridors should prepare for changing road conditions, reduced traction and potentially slippery pavement as temperatures and precipitation types fluctuate.
Lower elevation communities, including the Boise metropolitan area, are more likely to experience rain rather than accumulating snow under the current forecast.
The incoming precipitation could also affect Halloween weekend outdoor activities, particularly Saturday evening when shower coverage is expected to increase.
Travelers should check updated National Weather Service forecasts and Idaho road conditions before heading into mountainous areas.
Snow levels, accumulation amounts and travel impacts may change as the weekend approaches.