Boise, ID – A powerful multi-day storm system is moving into southeast Oregon and southwest Idaho on Wednesday, bringing strong winds, periods of rain, and significant mountain snow that will continue through Friday night.
According to the National Weather Service Boise, the first phase of the system arrives Wednesday with precipitation focused over mountains and unusually strong upper-level winds. Snow levels begin above 8,000 feet, keeping early precipitation mostly rain in lower elevations.
By midday Wednesday, a potent cold front arrives with wind gusts of 40–60 mph, especially in exposed areas of the Camas Prairie, Magic Valley, and adjacent highlands. A High Wind Warning is in effect for these locations. Winds will gradually weaken into the evening as precipitation begins to taper.
On Thursday, warmer air moves inland during the morning, pushing snow levels above 8,000 feet, before colder air reverses that trend late in the day. Mountain zones such as McCall, Stanley, and the West Central Mountains are expected to see 6–10 inches of snow, with locally 15–24 inches in the heaviest pockets above 6,500 feet.
Farther south, the Snake Basin will see rain Thursday before changing to snow Thursday night. Accumulations are expected to remain light. Snow levels will drop to 5,500–7,000 feet Friday as upper-level winds intensify again.
By Friday night, another round of mountain snow develops, mainly affecting Baker County, the Central Idaho Mountains, and higher terrain north of Boise.
Drivers traveling through mountain passes should expect rapidly changing weather, heavy snow bursts, and low visibility through Friday.
