Boise, Idaho – Residents across southwest Idaho and eastern Oregon could see dangerous flash flooding Saturday afternoon as heavy rain targets wildfire burn scar areas. The National Weather Service in Boise has issued a Flash Flood Watch from midday through Saturday evening, warning that localized debris flows are possible.
According to the NWS, the watch covers Idaho’s West Central Mountains, Lower Treasure Valley, and Upper Weiser River region, as well as Oregon’s Harney, Baker, and Malheur counties. Cities at risk include McCall, Cascade, Nampa, Ontario, Burns, and Baker City. Rainfall rates may become intense enough to quickly overwhelm drainage areas, especially in zones recently impacted by wildfires.
Travelers should avoid driving across flooded roads and be alert for sudden road closures. Authorities advise residents in vulnerable areas to have evacuation plans ready, charge devices, and move valuables to higher ground before storms arrive.
The heaviest rain is expected between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. Saturday, with the potential for rapid runoff into creeks, streams, and low-lying areas. If conditions worsen, additional Flash Flood Warnings may be issued.
